Gov Otu bows to pressure, orders release of detained critic Odama

Cross River State Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu, has ordered the release of businessman and social media critic Denis Odama, who had been detained for approximately a week. The detention followed a complaint lodged by some of the governor's aides.

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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.

In a statement released via his verified Facebook page on Wednesday night, Governor Otu announced that he had personally directed the aides to withdraw their complaint against Odama. He also instructed the state's Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to urgently review the matter and take steps to discontinue the case, ensuring Odama's immediate release.

Governor Otu anchored his decision on the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression, specifically referencing Section 39 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He affirmed his commitment to upholding this right for all citizens of Cross River State, including those who offer criticism. Otu encouraged young people to exercise this freedom responsibly, respecting cultural values and moral standards.

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I remain ommitted to upholding this right for all Cross Riverians, including those who criticise me.

The governor framed the decision as consistent with his leadership approach, emphasizing his commitment to listening and acting upon positive suggestions, advice, and constructive criticism. He stated, "You voted me as your governor to listen and to act on positive suggestions, advice, and constructive criticism. I will continue not only to listen, but to act accordingly."

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You voted me as your governor to listen and to act on positive suggestions, advice, and constructive criticism. I will continue not only to listen, but to act accordingly.

Odama, a car dealer from Cross River State, was arrested in Lagos on August 9 over allegations of making derogatory online comments about the governor. His subsequent transfer to Calabar and reported handcuffing during arraignment had drawn condemnation from civil society figures and opposition politicians. The Peoples Democratic Party's governorship candidate, Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, had publicly called for Odama's release, describing the arrest as a threat to constitutional freedoms.

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The state is our collective responsibility to protect; may God bless Cross River State.