In a dramatic turn of events in Ekiti State, the former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate and ex-Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has stepped into the unfolding saga involving legal luminary Afe Babalola, SAN, and human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi. Obi’s visit to Ado-Ekiti on Monday marked a significant intervention in a case that has captured national attention and stirred controversy.

The Visit to Afe Babalola

Peter Obi’s first stop was the office of Aare Afe Babalola, located within the premises of Afe Babalola University. Sources privy to the meeting disclosed that Obi engaged the senior advocate in “in-depth discussions,” which prominently featured the plight of Dele Farotimi. The human rights lawyer is currently facing charges under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015, and has been remanded in an Ekiti prison.

Observers noted that the meeting bore a conciliatory tone, with Obi reportedly appealing to Babalola to consider the broader implications of the charges against Farotimi. The legal luminary has faced backlash for initiating the case, with critics accusing him of using his influence to silence dissent. A large-scale protest is being planned by Nigerians at home and abroad to pressure Babalola to withdraw his petition.

While the specifics of the discussions remain undisclosed, a source present at the meeting described Obi’s approach as “humble and diplomatic.” The former governor emphasized the need for reconciliation and expressed concern over the escalating tension surrounding the case.

A Visit of Solidarity

Following his meeting with Babalola, Peter Obi proceeded to the prison facility where Dele Farotimi is being held. In a private meeting, Obi expressed his solidarity with the embattled lawyer. The former governor reportedly assured Farotimi of his unwavering support and discussed strategies to address the legal and humanitarian challenges posed by the case.

An X (formerly Twitter) user, Dr. Mo, shared updates about the visit:

“Today, Mr. @PeterObi travelled from Lagos to Ekiti State, dedicating the entire day to meaningful engagements. He visited Aare Afe Babalola at his office within the Afe Babalola University, where they had in-depth discussions on critical issues, including the situation of activist and lawyer @DeleFarotimi. Following this, Mr. @PeterObi proceeded to the prison facility where @DeleFarotimi is being held. In a private meeting, he expressed solidarity and engaged in a candid exchange aimed at addressing the prevailing challenges.”

The Legal Battle

Dele Farotimi was granted bail by Justice Babs O. Kuewumi of the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, December 9, 2024. The bail conditions included a sum of N50 million, a surety, and a guarantor with a landed property of equivalent value. Despite this, Farotimi remains in custody as efforts to meet the stringent conditions are underway.

The charges against Farotimi stem from allegations of cybercrime, reportedly linked to his public criticisms and activism. The Inspector-General of Police filed the case under suit number FHC/AD/CR/104/2024. The next hearing is scheduled for January 29, 2025.

A Call for Justice

Peter Obi’s intervention underscores the growing concern among Nigerians about the misuse of legal frameworks to stifle dissent. Advocates for Farotimi argue that his prosecution sets a dangerous precedent for freedom of expression in the country.

The coming weeks will reveal whether Obi’s efforts to mediate will yield tangible results. For now, his visit has added