Don’t Drag My Name Into Planned Protest Against Afe Babalola, Falana Cautions High Chief

… As Ilawe Ekiti High Chief Equally Warns

By Joseph Sunday

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The Nigerian foremost human rights lawyer, Barrister Femi Falana, SAN, has issued a warning to one High Chief Mike Oshaloni, the Oloti of Ado Ekiti, not to drag his name into any planned protests being organized by some rights campaigners over a defamation dispute between Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, and Mr Dele Farotimi.

In the same vein, High Chief Kayode Apalowo, the Head Chief of Aaye Quarters in Ilawe Ekiti from the Country Home of Femi Falana has equally joined his voice with that of Femi Falana against the Ado Ekiti High Chief, condemning his statement, where he accused the human rights lawyer of being involved in the protest.

Falana, in his statement, clarified that he was not involved in any protest against Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, over the matter, which is currently before the court.

He expressed concern over Oshaloni’s misleading statement as he said, “I wish to state without any fear of contradiction, that I am not involved in any plan to protest against Aare Afe Babalola SAN.”

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While acknowledging his long history of participating in peaceful rallies for human rights and social justice, Falana emphasized that he had never protested alongside Dele Farotimi.

He also reaffirmed his respect for Babalola’s actions in defending his reputation, urging the public to disregard the unfounded allegations made by Oshaloni.

Joining his own voice properly, the Ilawe Ekiti High Chief and the quarter Head Chief of Aaye Ilawe Ekiti, the Olojaaye, High Chief Kayode Apalowo gave the warning on Sunday while reacting to media reports quoting Chief Osaloni as saying that Barrister Falana would be among protesters planning to Storm Ado Ekiti.

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In a statement made available to newsmen, High Chief Apalowo, who is the leader of Barrister Falana SAN quarter in Ilawe Ekiti noted that Barrister Femi Falana, though a human rights activist would never protest over an issue that is already a subject of litigation in courts.

He warned Osaloni not to mar the cordial relationship between Barr. Femi Falana SAN and the elder statesman, Aare Afe Babalola SAN.

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