Peter Obi Appeals to Afe Babalola and Visits Detained Lawyer Dele Farotimi in Ekiti
Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate and ex-governor of Anambra State, met with renowned legal scholar Afe Babalola, SAN, in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
The meeting, held on Monday, revolved around Obi’s plea for clemency regarding human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, currently detained at the Ekiti prison. Babalola has faced significant backlash, both domestically and internationally, following his petition urging the police to prosecute Farotimi under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015. Critics accuse the legal icon of overstepping his influence, with protests being organized to address what many perceive as an abuse of power.
During the meeting, Obi reportedly engaged in comprehensive discussions with Babalola, with sources indicating that the conversation centered on seeking a resolution to the situation involving Farotimi.
Farotimi, a vocal human rights advocate, was charged in connection to alleged cybercrime offenses following the petition from Babalola. He appeared in court on Monday, where the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, presided over by Justice Babs O. Kuewumi, granted him bail under stringent conditions, including a ₦50 million surety and a guarantor with a property of equivalent value.
“Today, Mr. @PeterObi traveled from Lagos to Ekiti State, dedicating the day to impactful engagements,” a social media user wrote. “He met Aare Afe Babalola at his office in Afe Babalola University to discuss critical issues, including @DeleFarotimi’s situation. Later, he visited the detention facility to meet with Farotimi, expressing solidarity and working towards a resolution.”
Farotimi’s case, registered under suit number FHC/AD/CR/104/2024, has been adjourned to January 29, 2025, for further hearings.
