Human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, has made it clear that he did not send anyone to seek mediation on his behalf in connection with the defamation case involving his book Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.
Farotimi, who is currently being held at the Ekiti State prison, spoke with his fellow lawyer, Tope Temokun, on Friday and categorically rejected any attempts to plead for his release.
He expressed his opposition to the idea of asking legal figures, such as the renowned lawyer Afe Babalola, to intervene on his behalf. Farotimi’s statement came in response to reports that several supporters, including Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), had visited Afe Babalola in Ekiti to request his help.
“I have not sent anyone to plead on my behalf,” Farotimi emphasized. “I want the legal process to follow its course, and I reject anyone trying to mediate on my behalf.”
Farotimi’s comments have drawn significant attention, particularly because of the high-profile nature of the case. His book, which critiques Nigeria’s criminal justice system, has led to a defamation lawsuit filed by those who believe the book undermines their reputations.
Peter Obi, alongside other individuals, reportedly met with Afe Babalola in Ado-Ekiti to discuss Farotimi’s case, seeking a resolution. Obi had asked the senior lawyer to consider the “situation” of Farotimi, who has been in custody at the Ekiti prison. However, Farotimi firmly stated that he was not involved in any such attempts for a plea.
Temokun, who visited Farotimi at the prison, also revealed that the activist had clearly stated that he did not authorize anyone to speak on his behalf. He emphasized that Farotimi is confident in the truthfulness of his book and stands by everything he wrote.
“He asserts with unwavering certainty that everything in his book is true,” Temokun said after the visit. “He is willing to face any challenge in the legal system because he believes in the righteousness of his claims.”
The human rights lawyer further explained that Farotimi is determined to let the legal process unfold naturally. “He has made it clear that he does not want any shortcuts or backdoor deals. Farotimi wants this matter to proceed in the courts without any external interference.”
Despite his imprisonment, Farotimi remains steadfast in his belief that the legal battle will end in his favor. “If I had added a single lie to my book, I would lose this case,” he said, “but I stand by the truth and I know that justice will prevail.”
Farotimi’s stance has sparked a wider discussion about the role of mediation and political influence in legal cases. While some may see the mediation attempts as a way to avoid prolonged legal battles, Farotimi’s refusal reflects his commitment to ensuring that the truth is heard, regardless of the political consequences.
However, questions have been raised about the timing of the legal actions against Farotimi. Temokun pointed out that the lawsuits against Farotimi were filed after his arrest, prompting many to wonder why these lawsuits were not initiated earlier.
“Why wait until Farotimi is arrested? Why wait until his voice is silenced before these legal actions are taken?” Temokun questioned. “It raises the question of why these cases were not pursued when the book was first published. Is it because they wanted to suppress him?”
Temokun argued that Farotimi’s imprisonment and the legal actions against him represent a serious issue for the Nigerian justice system. He likened the situation to a trial without proper hearing, where a man is convicted without being given a fair chance to defend himself. “Farotimi is being judged without his day in court,” Temokun added. “This is not how justice is supposed to work.”
The activist’s statement also highlights a broader concern about how people with powerful connections in Nigeria’s political and legal systems can use their influence to suppress dissent. Farotimi has been an outspoken critic of corruption and the abuse of power in the country, making him a target for those who feel threatened by his words.
Farotimi’s refusal to accept mediation signals his strong belief in the importance of fair play in the legal system. His defiance of any plea for intervention shows his commitment to facing the full weight of the law, regardless of the consequences.
As Farotimi continues to fight his case, his supporters and critics alike will be closely watching how the legal proceedings unfold. Farotimi’s story is one of resilience in the face of adversity, and his words continue to resonate with many who believe that the Nigerian justice system needs reform.
“I know that the truth will set me free,” Farotimi said, ending the conversation with a quiet but firm conviction. “And I will never back down from that truth.”
