By Kelvin Obambon
Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has ordered the immediate release of a political critic, Denis Odama, who was detained following a complaint filed by the governor’s aides over derogatory comments made against the Governor Otu.
In a statement issued on Wednesday night, via his official Facebook handle, Governor Otu directed his aides to immediately withdraw the formal complaint lodged against Mr. Odama. He further instructed the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to urgently review the matter and exercise constitutional discretion to discontinue the case. The move ensures Mr. Odama’s prompt release from the correctional facility and reunion with his family.
Explaining the rationale behind his intervention, Governor Otu reiterated his firm commitment to democratic principles and freedom of expression as enshrined under Section 39 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
READ ALSO: FG spent subsidy savings on salaries, debt servicing, others – Finance Minister
“I hold a firm belief and faith 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,” Governor Otu stated. “I remain committed to upholding this right for all Cross Riverians, including those who criticise me.”
The Governor stated that leadership requires actively listening to constructive feedback. While encouraging open civic discourse, he urged young people across the state to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly and with due regard for cultural and moral standards.
