The Afe Babalola Law Firm has petitioned the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC), calling for the removal of lawyer and human rights activist Dele Farotimi from the roll of Nigerian legal practitioners.
In a petition dated December 6, 2024, the firm accused Farotimi of breaching multiple provisions of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Lawyers. Signed by Ola Faro, a partner at the firm, the 90-page petition highlights Farotimi’s actions as outlined in his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, which allegedly tarnished the reputation of Nigeria’s judiciary and key figures within the legal profession.
The petition lists several violations, including making defamatory statements about the Supreme Court, judicial officers, and notable lawyers like Afe Babalola, Olu Deramola, SAN, and members of the Afe Babalola & Co. law firm. It also accuses Farotimi of unethical conduct, such as participating in unlawful acts and misleading judicial officers.
Faro, writing in his personal capacity and on behalf of Afe Babalola & Co., emphasized that the book’s statements could potentially damage the integrity of the judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court, by falsely accusing its justices of corruption and misconduct. The petition also points out that Farotimi's claims are not only false but also harmful to the public perception of the legal profession.
Among the allegations are accusations that Farotimi disrespected the judiciary, obstructed justice, and engaged in unprofessional conduct. The petition also claims that Farotimi made defamatory remarks about other legal professionals and failed to respect the principles of good faith and fairness in his dealings.
This petition follows a series of legal actions taken against Farotimi, including a Federal High Court order barring the publication and distribution of his controversial book. Additionally, Farotimi has faced charges of defamation and cyberbullying, following a petition filed by Afe Babalola, who claims the book harmed his reputation and that of other legal practitioners.
The Afe Babalola law firm is calling for strict disciplinary action to uphold the dignity of the legal profession and protect the integrity of the Nigerian judiciary.
