The Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), Cross River State Chapter, has condemned a comment allegedly made by Mr. Denis Odama in response to a recent social media post by Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, describing the remark as inappropriate and unacceptable.
In a statement signed by its State Chairman, Comr. Francis Finian Offionor, the NYC particularly faulted what it described as an insinuation directed at a female member of the Cross River State Executive Council.
The organisation stressed that there are legitimate ways to disagree with government policies, question decisions or criticise public officials without resorting to comments it considers degrading or offensive.
NYC Calls for Responsible Use of Social Media
The Nigerian Youth Congress urged young people to recognise that freedom of expression comes with responsibility, particularly in the age of social media.
According to the group, social media provides citizens with a powerful platform to express their views and hold government accountable, but such freedom should be exercised with restraint and respect for the dignity of others.
“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,” the statement said.
Group Avoids Speculation Over Odama’s Arrest
The NYC clarified that it was not in a position to determine whether the comment was responsible for Odama’s arrest and would not speculate on the circumstances surrounding the matter.
It acknowledged the authority of relevant government institutions to act within the law, while appealing for restraint and consideration in handling the situation.
The organisation specifically called for Odama’s release, if circumstances permit.
NYC Condemns Comment but Appeals for Leniency
The youth organisation emphasised that its call for Odama’s release should not be interpreted as support for the comment attributed to him.
“We condemn the comment. We respect the authority of the law. But we plead for leniency and release,” the statement read.
The NYC argued that beyond the application of the law, there should also be room for restraint, understanding and consideration of the broader interest of peace in Cross River State.
Appeal for Calm and Responsible Political Engagement
The group also appealed to young people across Cross River State to exercise greater caution when expressing opinions online.
It urged youths to engage in constructive criticism while avoiding personal attacks and degrading remarks against public officials or other individuals.
The NYC further called on government and its institutions to respond to difficult situations with calmness and confidence, noting that the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu has continued to engage young people across the state.
According to the group, disagreements should not be allowed to escalate into situations capable of threatening peace and unity in the state.
The NYC Cross River State Chapter therefore appealed for calm, restraint and the release of Denis Odama, subject to the circumstances of the case.
The organisation concluded by stressing that Cross River State belongs to everyone, urging citizens to learn how to disagree respectfully without undermining the values that unite the people.
Signed:
Comr. Francis Finian Offionor
State Chairman,
Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), Cross River State Chapter
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