Former Governor Peter Obi’s recent visit to Senior Advocate Afe Babalola has sparked widespread criticism and public outrage.
The visit took place amidst the ongoing trial of rights activist Dele Farotimi, who faces defamation charges.
Obi led a delegation to Babalola’s office in Ekiti, but refused to disclose the purpose of the visit.
The former Anambra governor also visited Farotimi in jail, raising further questions about his involvement in the case.
Activists and critics quickly condemned the visit, arguing that it undermines efforts to address Nigeria’s judicial corruption issues.
Omoyele Sowore, SaharaReporters publisher, harshly criticized Obi’s actions, calling them harmful to the fight for judicial reform.
Sowore tweeted that the delegation’s actions “did colossal injustice” to the struggle against Nigeria’s judicial criminality and injustice.
The controversy stems from Farotimi’s book, “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System,” which implicates Babalola in corruption.
Farotimi’s book initially saw low sales but became a bestseller after his arrest, drawing attention to Babalola’s actions.
Protests against Farotimi’s detention were scheduled in major cities including Lagos, Abuja, Ekiti, and London on Tuesday.
Leaked U.S. government cables revealed Babalola’s involvement in a bribery scandal, where he spent millions to influence judges.
The growing backlash against Obi’s visit highlights the tensions surrounding the trial and Nigeria’s broader justice system.
