Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organisation, Afenifere has enjoined the parties and the general public to allow courts to do justice in the criminal defamation charges brought by Nigeria Police against the legal practitioner, Dele Farotimi.
Gatekeepers News reports that the charges followed a complaint lodged by Senior Advocate of Nigeria and elder statesman, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) over his alleged defamation in the book titled “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice” written by Farotimi.
According to the petitioner; the book can be read anywhere in the world, including Ekiti State where he resides.
Reacting, National Publicity Secretary of Afenifere, Jare Ajayi said the legal system provides an opportunity for parties in a dispute to prove their cases.
The body strongly opined that the interests of both parties and the general public must be protected and justice dispensed fairly.
He added, “The court is in the best position to determine how these interests are protected, and to ensure that the prosecution is conducted in a manner that better serves the interest of justice.”
Afenifere urged all parties to avoid statements and actions that may lead to a breach of peace while calling on the government to ensure total observance of the rule of law.
According to the organisation; the appropriate forum to determine whose rights have been breached and how is the court of law as established by the constitution, and enables all parties to prove their cases.
The spokesman added, “We enjoin all parties to conduct themselves in total submission to and respect for the rule of law.”
While looking forward to the judiciary dispensing justice without fear or favour, Afenifere appeals to everyone, including the directly involved parties, to resist temptation of heightening tension.
