Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has directed the withdrawal of the complaint against social media commentator Denis Odama, who was reportedly arrested and prosecuted over a statement allegedly made against the governor.

In a statement on Wednesday, Governor Otu said he had been fully briefed on the matter and had directed the aides who lodged the complaint with the police to withdraw it.

He also directed the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to urgently review the case and take the necessary legal steps to discontinue the prosecution, in line with his constitutional powers.

The governor said the objective was to ensure Odama’s immediate release from the correctional centre and reunification with his family.

Why the Case Drew Attention

The case attracted public attention after Odama was reportedly arrested in Lagos following a complaint over an allegedly derogatory statement concerning Governor Otu.

However, the governor said his decision to intervene was driven by his belief in the constitutional right of citizens to express their views, including criticism of those in authority.

Otu specifically referenced Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression.

“I remain committed to upholding this right for all Cross Riverians, including those who criticise me,” the governor said.

Freedom of Expression Comes With Responsibility

While ordering the withdrawal of the complaint, Governor Otu also appealed to young people in Cross River State to exercise their freedom of expression responsibly.

He urged citizens to consider the cultural values and moral standards of Cross River people when expressing their opinions, particularly on social media.

The governor stressed that those who elected him expected him to listen to their concerns, suggestions, advice and criticisms.

He added that he would continue to listen to the people and take appropriate action where necessary.

What the Governor’s Intervention Means

Governor Otu’s intervention effectively signals a move away from the prosecution of Odama, although the formal legal process required to discontinue the case remains with the relevant authorities.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice are now expected to take the necessary legal steps following the withdrawal of the complaint.

Beyond Odama’s case, the governor’s decision raises an important question about the balance between freedom of expression and responsible public commentary in Nigeria.

Akahi Master Analysis

The Odama case is significant because it highlights the tension that can arise when criticism of public officials moves from social media into the legal system.

For a democracy to function effectively, citizens must have room to question, criticise and scrutinise those in power. At the same time, freedom of expression does not remove the need for responsible communication or compliance with the law.

Governor Otu’s decision to withdraw the complaint therefore sends two messages: public officials should be prepared to tolerate criticism, while citizens should understand that exercising freedom of expression comes with responsibility.

More importantly, the intervention could help prevent the case from becoming a broader confrontation between government and citizens over the limits of criticism.

The real test, however, will be whether the principle expressed by the governor is consistently applied whenever Cross Riverians criticise those in authority—not only when a particular case attracts public attention.

Governor Otu also reminded Cross Riverians that maintaining peace and promoting the development of the state remains a collective responsibility.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News