The Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), Cross River State Chapter, has seen the comment made by Mr. Denis Odama on a recent post by His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State.
We find the comment, particularly the insinuation directed at a female member of the State Executive Council, highly inappropriate and unacceptable. There are many ways to disagree with a government, question a policy or criticise a public official without resorting to comments of such nature.
As young people, we must understand that freedom of expression also comes with responsibility. Social media gives everyone a voice, but that voice should be used with some measure of restraint and respect for the dignity of others.
That said, NYC is not in a position to say that this particular comment was the reason for Mr. Odama’s arrest, and we will not speculate on the circumstances surrounding it.
Our concern is simple: whatever the reason may be, we recognise that the relevant authorities have the right to act within the law. Our appeal, however, is that the matter be approached with restraint and consideration, and that Mr. Odama be released.
We make this appeal not because we support the comment he made. We do not. We make it because we believe that sometimes, beyond what the law permits, there is also room for restraint, understanding and the bigger interest of peace.
We equally appeal to our young people across Cross River State to be more careful with what we say online. Criticism is part of democracy. Holding government accountable is part of democracy. But personal attacks and degrading insinuations should never become our definition of activism.
At the same time, we believe that government and its institutions are strongest when they respond to difficult moments with calmness and confidence.
The administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu has continued to engage young people across the state, and we believe this spirit of engagement should remain. No disagreement, no matter how unpleasant, should be allowed to become bigger than the peace of our state.
NYC Cross River therefore appeals for calm, restraint and, most importantly, the release of Denis Odama, if the circumstances permit.
We condemn the comment.
We respect the authority of the law.
But we plead for leniency and release.
Cross River belongs to all of us, and we must learn to disagree without destroying the very values that hold us together.
Signed:
Comr. Francis Finian Offionor
State Chairman
Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), Cross River State Chapter
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