The long-running tension in Babanla, a historic community in Kwara State, took a new turn as the Upper Area Court in Ganmo struck out the defamation case filed by the town’s traditional ruler, Oba Yusuf Alabi, against four of his subjects.
Oba Alabi had accused Salaudeen Abdulrafiu, Odofin Saheed, Abdulsalam Abdulallateef Olatunji, and Pastor Fatai Ajide of making statements that allegedly tarnished the image of the royal family and linked some of its members to criminal activities.
The matter, which had generated widespread interest, was expected to continue until a surprising twist unfolded in court.
During the latest hearing, the monarch’s lawyer, Barrister Sambo Akanbi, informed the presiding judge, Justice A.B. Yahya, that his client had decided to discontinue the suit. He explained that the withdrawal followed persistent appeals from respected stakeholders who urged a peaceful resolution rather than a prolonged legal battle.
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The defendants’ counsel, Barrister Ibrahim, welcomed the development, describing it as a positive step toward restoring calm and unity in the community. Acting on the formal letter of discontinuance presented by the king’s counsel, the court promptly terminated the case and discharged all four defendants.
Outside the courtroom, residents who had gathered in solidarity with the accused persons, expressed mixed reactions. While many celebrated the dismissal as a victory for peace, some criticized what they perceived as the king’s authoritarian style of leadership, which they claim has slowed Babanla’s development since his enthronement.
One of the discharged defendants, Pastor Ajide, went further to urge both federal and state authorities to investigate ongoing security concerns in the town. He specifically called for a thorough probe of individuals held by the Department of State Services (DSS) and for the arrest of other suspects believed to be connected to the unrest but still at large.
With the case now laid to rest, attention in Babanla shifts to reconciliation and the hope that this legal truce will open the door to genuine dialogue and lasting peace in the community.
