In a dramatic late-night intervention at Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, successfully resolved a legal dispute between elder statesman Aare Afe Babalola and human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi.
The high-profile reconciliation underscores the enduring power of Yoruba traditional rulers in fostering unity and peace.
The Ooni, accompanied by prominent Yoruba monarchs, arrived at ABUAD shortly after 10 p.m. Sunday to appeal to Aare Babalola to forgive Farotimi and withdraw the ongoing criminal case against him.
Speaking during a closed-door meeting with Babalola and his legal team, the Ooni described the case as a father-son conflict best resolved through dialogue and forgiveness.
Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare in a statement quoted Ooni to have stated,
“Aare Babalola, you are a pillar of wisdom and a shining light for the Yoruba people and Nigeria at large. This issue must end today, as we cannot afford to let divisions linger. Dele Farotimi is your son, and as a father, you must forgive him and let this matter rest,” the Ooni said.
The meeting was attended by other notable monarchs, including the Ewi of Ado, Oba Rufus Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, the Ajero of Ijero, Oba Adewole Joseph Adebayo, and the Ogoga of Ikere, Oba Samuel Adejinmi Adu, among others.
In a touching response, Aare Babalola acknowledged the authority of the traditional rulers and their role in upholding Yoruba values. He announced his decision to forgive Farotimi and immediately withdraw the criminal charges, describing the intervention as a defining moment.
“I have resisted similar pleas from notable figures, but I cannot say no to the Ooni and the esteemed Yoruba monarchs gathered here. As a Yoruba man, I understand the importance of honoring our traditions. Dele Farotimi is forgiven,” Babalola declared.
Babalola emphasized that his decision was not about material gain but protecting his name and legacy. He reflected on his lifelong commitment to integrity and transparency, rejecting past offers of political appointments and wealth to uphold his principles.
The reconciliation, achieved in the presence of ABUAD dignitaries and traditional rulers, highlights the effectiveness of Yoruba traditional institutions in resolving disputes.
The Ooni’s intervention not only restored peace but also reinforced the cultural significance of dialogue and forgiveness.
As the Ooni departed for Akure after midnight, the message was clear: the power of Yoruba unity remains unshaken, and tradition continues to serve as a bridge for conflict resolution.