By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
A Magistrate Court in Jalingo has issued a bench warrant for Abdumumuni Imam, a social media activist, to appear before it and substantiate his allegation that the Minister of State for Regional Development, Barr. Uba Maigari, diverted ₦16.5 billion meant for the reconstruction of the Namnai Bridge in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State.
In a trending post on his verified Facebook page, Imam alleged that the Minister diverted the contract fund, resulting in the non-commencement of work on the collapsed bridge.
Counsel to the Minister, Dr. Ibrahim Effiong Esq., told journalists on Friday in Jalingo that the “self-acclaimed social media activist” made damaging accusations that have pitched the Minister against the people of the state and gravely injured his reputation.
He explained that his client only wants the activist to defend his claims before the court for proper documentation and clarity.
“My client, the Honourable Minister of State for Regional Development, has been inundated with reports on social media credited to one Abdulmumuni Imam, alleging the diversion of over ₦16.5 billion meant for reconstructing the Namnai Bridge that collapsed since last year.
“As a reputable legal luminary and law-abiding citizen, the Minister deemed it important for the man to prove his claims before the court. He has been invited, and rather than appearing to defend himself, he has returned to social media to allege that security agencies are after him. We did not approach any security agency. Rather, we went to the court. The security agencies are not looking for him; it is the court that wants his presence for clarity.”
Effiong stressed the need for accountability in the use of social media.
“I think it is important for people to be held responsible for their content on social media. Yes, we have freedom of speech, but it comes with the responsibility of using it responsibly. That is the only way to protect the sanctity of that space.
“Besides, activism comes with bravery and responsibility too. If you want to attack people under the guise of activism, you should be of no questionable character. I don’t understand why he is running from the court, which is open to everyone.
“I must say this is not about seeking compensation or damages. It’s not about the money at all. This is about putting the records straight. The Honourable Minister is not above the law, and if he is able to prove that the Minister is truly in the wrong, the law will take its course. Otherwise, he should face the consequences of behaving irresponsibly in the public space,” Effiong said.
