Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has taken steps to mediate the defamation suit involving legal activist Dele Farotimi and prominent lawyer Afe Babalola. In a recent visit to Afe Babalola in Ado-Ekiti, Obi urged an amicable resolution to the ongoing legal battle.
The defamation case, which has attracted significant public interest, centers on allegations made by Farotimi that Babalola claims have tarnished his reputation. Farotimi, who is also a political commentator, was granted bail of N50 million by the court and has been required to surrender his international passport as part of the bail conditions.
Obi’s visit to Afe Babalola was reportedly aimed at fostering dialogue and exploring alternatives to protracted litigation. Sources indicate that Obi emphasized the importance of resolving disputes through mutual understanding and reconciliation, a principle he advocates for in both politics and public affairs.
Following his meeting with Afe Babalola, Obi visited Farotimi at an Ekiti prison, where the activist is temporarily held pending compliance with his bail conditions. The meeting has sparked mixed reactions from the public, with some praising Obi’s efforts to mediate, while others, including activist Omoyele Sowore, criticized the visit. Sowore questioned Obi’s motives, suggesting that the move might be politically driven.
In response, Obi’s team clarified that the visit was in line with his commitment to peaceful dispute resolution and justice. “Peter Obi’s actions are guided by his belief in fostering unity and finding common ground, even in contentious situations,” a spokesperson said.
The case continues to unfold as observers await whether Obi’s intervention will lead to an alternative resolution or if the court proceedings will proceed as planned.
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