Politics
Court frees Cross River governor’s critic Dennis Odama
A MAGISTRATE Court in Calabar has discharged businessman, Denis Odama, after the prosecutor withdrew a case filed against him for allegedly defaming Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu.
The magistrate, Mercy Ene, freed the accused following the decision of the prosecution, led by F. O. Okoi, to discontinue the litigation, CrossRiverWatch reported Thursday morning.
“I have the directives of the applicant to withdraw this application,” the magistrate said as the prosecution discontinued the case.
The ICIR reports that Odama had spent days in a correctional facility after he was arrested over a complaint lodged against him by the governor’s aides.
According to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), he was arrested on August 10 and imprisoned for criticising the governor over his alleged refusal to redeploy the Commissioner for Sports, who according to the businessman, was not performing.
Many residents of the state and other Nigerians condemned Odama’s arrest and detention, while others appealed to the governor to order his release.
Responding to the appeals, the governor ordered the immediate release of the accused on Tuesday, according to NAN.
Otu said he had been fully briefed on the case, including how the accused allegedly defamed him and the subsequent arrest and prosecution initiated by his aides.
The governor, who described himself as a father and leader, directed the aides involved to withdraw their complaint against Odama.
“I have also directed the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to urgently review the matter and take necessary steps to discontinue the case. This action will enable Odama to be released from the correctional centre without further delay and reunited with his family.
“I firmly believe in the provisions of the Constitution, particularly Section 39, which guarantees citizens the right to freedom of expression,” he said.
Otu reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the constitutional right of all residents of Cross River, including those who criticise his administration. He, however, urged young people to exercise their freedom responsibly and consider the cultural values and moral standards of the state.
He said he was voted as the state governor to listen and act on positive suggestions, advice and constructive criticism by the people.
He assured the state residents that his administration would continue to listen to their concerns and act on positive suggestions aimed at advancing the state.
Otu also urged residents to regard Cross River State as their collective responsibility and work together to protect its interests.