News Investigators/ Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has ordered the immediate release of Dennis Odama, a social media critic who allegedly made defamatory remarks against him on Facebook.
Mr Otu disclosed this on Wednesday in a statement, saying that he had been fully briefed on the case involving Odama, a young Cross River indigene, who was arrested and imprisoned by his aides for allegedly defaming the governor.
He said that Odama was reported to the police by some of his aides over a derogatory and insidious statement against him.
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.
Otu said that he was voted as governor of Cross River to listen and act on positive suggestions, advice and constructive criticism by the people.
He assured residents of Cross River 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.
Dennis Odama, an indigene of Cross River was arrested on Aug. 12 and imprisoned for criticising the governor of refusing to redeploy the Commissioner for Sports, who according to him, was not performing.
NAN
