Governor Bassey Otu has ordered the immediate release of Dennis Odama, a critic who allegedly made defamatory remarks against him on Facebook.

Mr Otu disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday. The governor stated that he had been fully briefed on the case involving Mr Odama, a young Cross River indigene, whom his aides arrested and detained for allegedly defaming the governor.

He said some of his aides reported Mr Odama to the police 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 Mr 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.

Mr Otu reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the constitutional right of all residents of Cross River, including those who criticise his administration.

The governor urged youths, however, to exercise their freedom responsibly and consider the state’s cultural values and moral standards.

Mr Otu said he was voted governor of Cross River to listen to and act on positive suggestions, advice, and constructive criticism from the people. He assured residents that his administration would continue to listen to their concerns and act on positive suggestions aimed at advancing the state.

Mr Otu also urged residents to regard Cross River as their collective responsibility and work together to protect its interests.

Mr Odama was arrested on August 12 and imprisoned for criticising the governor for refusing to redeploy the commissioner for sports, whom, he said, was not performing.

(NAN)