Maigeri has denied diverting N16.5bn Bridge Funds and declared allegations as malicious and baseless.
NaijaOnPoint Nigeria reports that the Minister of Regional Affairs, Uba Maigeri has firmly denied social media allegations accusing him of diverting N16.5 billion earmarked for the reconstruction of the collapsed Namnai Bridge in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The claims were made by a social media user, Abdulmumuni Imam, who alleged that the minister not only mismanaged the project funds but was also plotting to have him arrested for criticizing the government’s handling of the bridge reconstruction. Imam further claimed that the minister had secretly procured directives authorizing the Police, DSS, and NSCDC to detain him.
Addressing journalists on Friday in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, Dr. Ibrahim Effiong, legal counsel to the minister, dismissed the accusations as false, malicious, and lacking any factual basis.
Effiong described Maigeri as “a reputable member of the bar” who had done nothing improper, expressing concern over the growing trend of unverified claims being circulated online.
While acknowledging Nigerians’ constitutional right to free expression, Effiong warned against abusing such freedoms.
“People should not use social media to run others down. If you make serious allegations, you must also be ready to justify them when called upon,” he stated.
He confirmed that the minister has taken legal action and the matter is now before the court, urging Imam to appear and provide evidence to substantiate his claims.
“Everyone has the right to seek legal remedy. The hands of the law cannot be too short. Where your right starts, it also ends somewhere,” Effiong said.
He commended Maigeri’s decision to pursue justice through lawful means, noting that his conduct demonstrated respect for due process and public office.
“If all Nigerians will be like the minister, I believe Nigeria will be a great country,” he added.