I do not wish to dwell on the brave and calculated defamatory tirade launched by one Dele Farotimi against Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, CFR—Chairman of Emmanuel Chambers and the visionary Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), a globally acclaimed institution. Such actions bring to mind the Yoruba proverb, “Eni ti ko ni iru eni ko le mo yin eni,” which translates as “Only a person from a responsible background can appreciate the worth of an icon.”
Aare Afe Babalola is far beyond the reach of reckless talkers who find themselves in noble professions or communication platforms by some accident of fortune. He is a man whose excellent intellect and diligence propelled him from humble beginnings to unparalleled greatness. His electrifying brilliance and unshakeable determination to excel have set him apart from his youth.
Early Testimony of Brilliance
Dr. Victor Omololu Sowemimo Olunloyo, one of Nigeria’s finest mathematical minds and a former Governor of Old Oyo State, testifies to Aare Babalola’s genius:
“I have known Afe Babalola since 1949. Afe is extraordinarily brilliant—a genius from no aristocratic background. He has shown the world that success does not depend on who your father is. Afe was the only pupil teacher under my grandfather in Gbongan, Osun State, who could argue logically with a Government College boy. I asked my father to release him, and he did. Within eight years, Afe became a lawyer under Olayinka Ayoola.”
Such is the calibre of the man that specific misguided individuals have tried to defame—a man whose name resonates with achievement, discipline, and excellence. Their defamation and character assassination are brazen in their criminality and offensive to all that Aare Babalola represents.
Few names command the same reverence and admiration in the annals of Nigerian legal history as Aare Afe Babalola. A distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), philanthropist, and nation-builder, his legacy transcends the legal profession. Through his Emmanuel Chambers, he has mentored and produced an unparalleled number of SANs—a feat only a handful of law firms can boast.
In 2010, Aare Babalola founded ABUAD, an institution that redefined Nigeria’s private education. The university’s world-class facilities, innovative curriculum, and stellar faculty have made it a beacon of excellence. ABUAD embodies Babalola’s vision for a holistic educational system that promotes academic excellence, integrity, ethics, and social responsibility.
Babalola’s impact extends beyond education to healthcare. The Afe Babalola Multi-System Hospital, Ado Ekiti, is a testament to his dedication to improving lives. Equipped with cutting-edge medical technology and staffed by compassionate professionals, the hospital provides top-tier healthcare services to Nigerians.
This institution reflects Babalola’s belief that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental human right. Through his philanthropy, Babalola has ensured that this vision becomes a reality for many.
Recognising the importance of industrialisation for economic growth, Aare Babalola initiated the Afe Babalola Industrial Zone in Ado Ekiti. This project is designed to drive economic activities, create jobs, and empower residents with valuable skills. It is yet another example of his commitment to regional and national development.
Despite his towering achievements, Aare Babalola has faced criticism and defamation, often driven by envy or petty politics. Yet his resilience is unwavering. No amount of malicious attacks can tarnish the enduring legacy of a man whose life’s work speaks for itself.
Babalola’s approach to adversity is defined by grace and focus. He remains steadfast in improving society through education, healthcare, and industrial innovation. His achievements are his loudest response to detractors.
Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, symbolises hope and is a trailblazer for excellence in Nigeria. His establishments—ABUAD, the Multi-System Hospital, and the Industrial Zone—are testaments to his vision for a better society.
Leaders like Aare Babalola remind us of what is possible with determination, integrity, and a commitment to positive change in a country grappling with challenges in education, healthcare, and economic development. His life is a source of inspiration to aspiring lawyers, entrepreneurs, and nation-builders.
Aare Babalola’s rise to global recognition is not accidental; it results from decades of relentless effort and determination. It is only natural that he protects this legacy from being tarnished by the reckless utterances of an oniyangi (worthless fellow). Greatness deserves to be shielded, celebrated, and preserved for posterity.
True greatness is not defined by popularity but by the indelible impact one leaves on society. Aare Afe Babalola exemplifies this, and no amount of negativity can diminish his light.
He should fight for his rights.
*Barr. Ojo-Lanre is the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development.
