By Patrick Obia
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu has ordered the immediate release of incarcerated businessman and social commentator, Dennis Odama from Afokang prison.
Governor Otu who gave the order on his verified Facebook page on Wednesday August 19, 2026 said he has been briefed on the matter.
Sources from the Government House had told CrossRiverWatch that Mr. Dennis who was arrested in gestapo style days ago in Lagos and transported down to Calabar and later remanded in Afokang Correctional Center, was been incarcerated by Governor Otu’s aides – Akiba Ekpenyong and Pius Ankpo on his behalf.
With the ordeal gathering public uproar, much criticism and a sign of stifling the civic space, Governor Otu said “I have been fully briefed on the case involving Denis Odama, a young Cross Riverian who was reported to the Police by some of my aides over a derogatory and insidious statement made against my person.”
He declared that as a father and leader, he has directed the aides involved to withdraw their complaint against Mr. Odama and also directed the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of the State to urgently review the matter and, in the exercise of his constitutional discretion, take the necessary steps to discontinue the case, so that Mr. Odama may be released from the correctional center without further delay and reunited with his family.
The Governor assured that: “I hold a firm belief and faith in the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, particularly Section 39, which guarantees every citizen the right to freely express themselves.
I remain committed to upholding this right for all Cross Riverians, including those who criticise me,” he said.
He advised and encouraged young Cross Riverians, even as they exercise their constitutional freedom, to do so responsibly and with regard for the cultural values and moral standards the state hold dear.
While expressing spirit of democracy, he averred that: “You voted me as your Governor to listen and to act on positive suggestions, advice, and constructive criticism, and I will continue not only to listen, but to act accordingly.
READ ALSO: BREAKING: Court Remands Denis Odama For Seven Days For ‘Bullying Gov. Otu Online’
“Cross River State is our collective responsibility to protect. God bless our dear State,” he stated.
Recall that many rights activists led by citizen Agba Jalingo, political analysts and as well as netizens have clamored for Mr. Odama’s release.
Before the governor’s intervention, Mr. Odama was re-remanded today when he appeared in court. His Lawyer Kyrian Omang Esq., told CrossRiverWatch that the Prosecution Counsel, F. okoi Esq had asked for seven more days to be able to file. Mr. Omang said they have been served the charge sheet as well.
Short Link:
Leave feedback about this