Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has directed the withdrawal of a complaint against Denis Odama, a young Cross Riverian who was reported to the Police by some of his aides over what the Governor described as a “derogatory and insidious” statement against his person.
Governor Otu gave the directive in a statement published on his verified Facebook page, wedne, saying he had been fully briefed on the matter and, “as a father and leader,” had directed the aides involved to withdraw their complaint against Odama.
“I have also directed the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of the State to urgently review the matter and, in the exercise of his constitutional discretion, take the necessary steps to discontinue the case, so that Mr. Odama may be released from the correctional centre without further delay and reunited with his family,” the Governor stated.
Otu said his decision was informed by his firm belief in the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, particularly Section 39, which guarantees every citizen the right to freely express themselves.
“I remain committed to upholding this right for all Cross Riverians, including those who criticise me,” he said.
The Governor, however, urged young people to exercise their constitutional freedom responsibly, with due regard for the cultural values and moral standards of the people.
“I also encourage our young people, even as they exercise this constitutional freedom, to do so responsibly and with regard for the cultural values and moral standards we hold dear as a people,” Otu said.
He stressed that his mandate from the people included listening to their views and acting on positive suggestions, advice and constructive criticism.
“You voted me as your Governor to listen and to act on positive suggestions, advice, and constructive criticism, and I will continue not only to listen, but to act accordingly,” he said.
The Governor’s intervention signals a conciliatory approach to the controversy surrounding Odama’s case and reinforces his stated commitment to freedom of expression and constructive engagement with citizens.
Otu also called for collective responsibility in protecting the state, declaring: “Cross River State is our collective responsibility to protect.”
By Kingsley Agim
