Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has intervened in the ongoing controversy surrounding the detention of businessman and social commentator, Denis Odama, ordering his aides to immediately drop all charges and legal complaints against the critic.
Odama had spent roughly a week in custody at a correctional center after being arrested and remanded over alleged online comments directed at the governor.
In an official statement released via his verified social media handles, Governor Otu stated that he had been fully briefed on the circumstances surrounding the arrest, which was originally initiated by some of his aides over what they deemed a “derogatory and insidious” statement.
Otu also instructed the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to urgently review the case and take steps to discontinue the prosecution, paving the way for Odama’s release from the correctional centre and reunion with his family.
The governor disclosed this in a statement posted on his verified Facebook page on Wednesday, explaining that he had been fully briefed on the matter involving Odama, who was reported over a statement he described as derogatory and insidious.
Invoking Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression, Governor Otu emphasized his commitment to protecting the right of Cross Riverians to express themselves, including those who criticize his administration.
He noted that as a leader, he remains dedicated to upholding constitutional freedoms while fostering an environment where open dialogue is respected.
However, he urged young people to exercise this right responsibly and with due regard for the cultural values and moral standards cherished by the state.
Otu further stated that his mandate requires him to listen to the concerns of citizens and respond constructively to advice and criticism.
He called on residents to view the protection and development of the state as a collective responsibility that demands mutual respect and cooperation.
The governor’s intervention aims to bridge gaps and encourage a more harmonious relationship between the government and the public.
Denis Odama had been arrested by the police in Lagos on August 9, 2026, following a petition filed by some of Otu’s aides, and was subsequently transferred to Calabar, where he was arraigned and remanded in custody.
The detention of the social media critic sparked criticism and widespread calls for his release from rights activists and political figures.
Odama spent about a week in detention before the governor stepped in to halt the legal proceedings against him.
Prior to the governor’s intervention, the Cross River State Commissioner for Information, Ekpenyong Cobham, had clarified that the case did not originate from Governor Otu or the state government.
Cobham explained that the petition was filed by the individuals in their personal capacities, urging the public to separate the actions of the individuals from the official stance of the state government.
