Ebira Concerned Women Association Commends Governor Ododo for Granting Pardon in Libel Case
The Coordinator of Ebira Concerned Women Association (ECWA), Mrs Hajara Suberu has commended the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for granting pardon to a young man, Sadiq Abdulhamid, who was recently charged to court over allegations of libel and defamation against the Kogi State Accountant-General, Dr Habibat Oyiza Tijjani Onumoko.
The case, which attracted widespread attention within the Ebira community, stemmed from a controversial social media post allegedly made by the accused.
In the post, he was said to have tarnished the image of the State Government and that of the Office of the Accountant General.
He allegedly claimed that the current Accountant General was hindering his subordinates from performing their duties independently.
Following a formal petition, the man was invited and arraigned in court, an action that draws both positive and negative reactions from across the state.
In response to persistent appeals from the people of the state to the governor and the Accountant General of the State, the governor intervened, leading to the release of the boy.
Reacting to the development, the Ebira Concerned Women Association (ECWA) issued a public statement on Friday, describing the government action as "a reflection of its commitment to justice tempered with compassion, and demonstration of a belief in second chances".
The statement reads;
"The Ebira Concerned Women Association, extend sincere appreciation to the Kogi State Government for granting pardon to Sadiq Abdulhamid, whose case was previously charged to court."
The group also revealed that they reached out to the Accountant General and had full detail of the story. They thanked the Accountant-General for her understanding in the matter. They said the Accountant General also showed a genuine willingness to resolve the issue during their conversation on the telephone.
Mrs Suberu said, "filing a case of libel and defamation of character in court is the first step any responsible individual should take to protect their integrity. We appreciate the Accountant General for her sincere interest in seeking an out-of-court resolution. Unfortunately, some individuals who refuse proper upbringing at home often end up learning hard lessons in public, such is the case with Abdulhamid." the group added.
While also thanking the commissioner of information, Mr Kingsley Fanwo for his press release that helped settle the raised dust, and announced the position of the government on the matter, the group encouraged him to maintain the momentum.
The group assured the government of its continuous support and reaffirm its commitment to promoting peace, rehabilitation, and good citizenship in Kogi state.
The association also used the opportunity to caution against the misuse of social media, especially by young people, urging citizens to be responsible in their public communications.
“Freedom of expression does not give room for slander. We advise our youth to engage constructively and always uphold the values of respect and truth,” the group added.
Medinat Otaru PhD
PRO, ECWA
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