Afe Babalola’s Chambers Expresses Gratitude, Emphasizes the Need for Legal Action
In the wake of allegations made by activist Dele Farotimi, Afe Babalola’s Chambers has, for the first time, issued an official statement addressing the controversy. The statement, signed by Adebayo Adenipekun, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), expressed gratitude to those who have shown support and outlined the rationale behind the Chambers’ decision to pursue legal action.
The statement reads: “We appreciate everyone who has called, messaged, defended, and stood by us regarding the attempt by Mr. Dele Farotimi to tarnish the hard-earned reputation that we have built over several decades.”
Adenipekun explained that remaining silent in the face of such allegations could be misconstrued as an admission of guilt. He stated, “While some have suggested that we ignore these falsehoods, we believe that failing to respond would only validate the reckless and malicious claims made by the author.”
The Chambers reaffirmed its commitment to operating within the bounds of the law, while highlighting the importance of addressing these defamatory statements. “As a law-abiding organization, we understand the implications of our actions and the potential for misrepresentation by the author, his supporters, and uninformed members of the public. Nonetheless, we are determined to uphold the integrity and reputation of our Founder, Aare Afe Babalola, OFR, CFR, SAN, LLD, which has been built on decades of hard work, legal expertise, and unwavering advocacy.”
The statement further emphasized that freedom of speech comes with responsibility. “While the Constitution guarantees fundamental human rights, these rights are not absolute. The freedom to speak does not exempt one from the consequences of their speech. Those targeted by defamatory statements have a corresponding right to seek redress through lawful means.”
Given the legal proceedings underway, the Chambers refrained from discussing specific details of their case against Mr. Farotimi. “Since the matter is sub judice, we will not debate the merits of our complaint or the evidence against Mr. Farotimi in the media. Unlike him, we place unwavering faith in the justice system, regardless of the outcome. Over six decades of litigating across Nigeria, we have faced numerous competent lawyers who have prevailed against us in court. This record disproves Mr. Farotimi’s baseless accusations and underscores our confidence that justice will ultimately prevail through the legal process—not media tactics or public theatrics.”
The Chambers concluded by reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law and its enduring legacy of championing justice
