CSOs Condemn Use of Online Media to Malign Citizens

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria (CCSON) has expressed concern over the activities of some people who engage in defamatory publications using online media platform.

The coalition expressed regret over the misuse of the media by individuals who under the guise of  investigative journalism, publish defamatory articles without adhering to ethics of the profession.

The Executive Secretary of the Centre for Ethical Conduct, Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE), Alvin Ahmed, who addressed journalists on behalf of the coalition of over 15 CSOs in Abuja yesterday, said that people to be maligned in the guise of investigative journalism without proof can discourage good deeds by such public spirited individuals.

He said a prominent businessman, Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, known for his philanthropy was labelled as a sxmuggler by an online media outlet with nothing to substantiate its claim.

While speaking on the ordeal of businessman in the hands of unnamed online media outfit, the coalition said the man has been a victim of false and unsubstantiated allegation.

Ahmed cautioned the online media platform to retract a defamatory story on Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun or face legal action.

He said: “In the realm of community development and philanthropy, Egungbohun stands as a shining example of generosity and compassion.

“Through his foundation, the IBD Dende Foundation, and personal outreach efforts, it is no news that he has touched countless lives, providing welfare packages, donations to churches and mosques, and spear-heading community infrastructure projects.

“From the provision of various basic social amenities to catering for medical bills, electrification projects, youth employment and empowerment, and school fees for the less fortunate in the society, to mention a few, Dende’s commitment to uplifting and impacting society knows no bounds.

“Yet, despite his selfless contributions to society, Dende finds himself the target of baseless accusations and malicious slander.

“For some months, certain individuals masquerading as investigative journalists have waged relentless campaigns of defamation, hurling unfounded allegations without a shred of evidence to support their claims.

“One incident cited as justification for these attacks involves over two years old interaction viral videos which involve Alhaji Dende mediating in altercations between some clearing agents and Customs officials while passing by the scene of the occurrence.

“Let us be unequivocal in seeking redress for the distasteful treatment as a Nigerian and certified agent is not only a fundamental right but a moral imperative.

“To suggest otherwise is to grossly misrepresent the facts and impugn the characters of upstanding citizens.

“It is also imperative to differentiate between smugglers and certified customs-licensed clearing and forwarding agents.

“Alhaji Dende falls squarely into the latter category. He is a law-abiding individual who operates within the confines of the law, upholding integrity and compliance with the provisions of the Constitution at every turn.”