By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
A youth group in Bali local government area of Taraba state has threatened a court action against one Mr Nuru Alhijo, a social media user over a publication that is verified by the concern authority to be fake news against the Taraba State Commissioner for Cooperative and poverty alleviation, Hon Habu Philip.
Our correspondent reports that the social media user (Nuru Alhijo), had few days ago, published an alleged molestation and harassment article against the commissioner.
However, the authority concern after findings, discovered the publication was a mere fake news, targeted at tarnishing the good reputation of the Commissioner, and discrediting the government of governor Agbu Kefas.
Following the development, the youth group through her president Mr Micky Habu, has asked the social media poster Mr. Alhijo to retract the publication within seven days or face legal action.
The group described Alhijo’s action as wicked envy, suspected to being sponsored by enemies of governor Kefas administration.
“Dear Nuru Alhijo, your recent open letter against the Commissioner for Cooperative and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. James Philip Habu, has been brought to our attention. While it is your democratic right to express your opinions, it is concerning that you have chosen to publish unverified allegations that are not only defamatory but appear to serve a malicious agenda.
“It is worth cautioning you against allowing yourself to be used by political detractors whose aim is to tarnish the reputation of hardworking individuals in the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas. Hon. James Philip Habu is a respected public servant whose contributions to the fight against poverty and the empowerment of youths in Taraba State have been widely recognised.
“Your claims about the Commissioner’s alleged misconduct lack evidence and are clearly designed to mislead the public. Such baseless accusations do not reflect well on you or the youths of Bali Local Government Area whom you claim to represent. Instead of spreading misinformation, you are advised to channel your energy into constructive ventures that will better your life and contribute to the development of your community.
“We demand that you immediately retract your defamatory statements against Hon. James Philip Habu within seven (7) days of receiving this reply. Failure to comply will leave us with no choice but to initiate legal proceedings to protect the Commissioner’s reputation and integrity.
“Let this serve as a final warning to refrain from publishing defamatory and unfounded allegations. The administration of Governor Agbu Kefas values constructive engagement, not baseless attacks on its officials,” the group messaged.
