Lawyer calls for release of commentator Dennis Odama

Etaba Agbor, a legal practitioner and Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association Young Lawyers Forum (NBA-YLF), has called for the immediate release of commentator Dennis Odama. Odama is currently being detained by the Nigeria Police Force following allegations of cyberbullying.

Agbor described the arrest and continued detention as a breach of fundamental rights and a threat to constitutional freedoms. He noted that Odama has long been a vocal commentator on governance and public affairs in Cross River State. While acknowledging that Odama’s criticisms may be unpopular with authorities, Agbor argued that such opinions should not serve as a basis for arrest or intimidation.

The lawyer emphasized that democracy requires accountability and that leaders should tolerate public scrutiny. He stated that if defamation has occurred, the appropriate legal remedy is to seek redress through the courts rather than using state coercive powers. Furthermore, Agbor pointed out that even under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, the alleged offense remains bailable and does not justify prolonged detention.