By joshua 
HON. AGUYE’S POSITION ON THE ARREST, DETENTION AND CALLS FOR THE RELEASE OF ABDULHAMEED ANDA, A.K.A “ODODO THE FLOWER BOY”
Our position on the arrest, detention and call to secure the release of Mr. Abdulhameed Anda, known on social media by the handle “Ododo the Flower Boy”.
Abdulhameed, an active member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), politically domiciled in Lokoja Local Government Area, which falls under my Federal Constituency. As such, it is imperative to clarify our position and the efforts made behind the scenes regarding his situation.
While we acknowledge the constitutional right of every Nigerian to freedom of speech and expression under our presidential system of government, it must also be stated that these rights are not absolute and must be exercised responsibly. Constructive criticism is welcome in any democratic setting however, it must be based on truth, facts, and evidence. As the legal maxim goes: he who alleges must prove.
Following consistent follow-up on Abdulhameed’s case, we gathered that his arrest was not arbitrary. Rather, it was based on reports submitted to authorities accusing him of making defamatory and unsubstantiated allegations against certain government officials, which upon investigation, were found to be false.
Despite our total disapproval of the manner, activities and tone of Abdulhameed’s activities on social media which we condemn unequivocally we have made numerous behind the scenes efforts to plead on his behalf. These interventions have included discussions with those who feel Abdul’s social media activities hurt their feelings, person and reputation and highly placed individuals and government stakeholders whose identities we are constrained from disclosing at this time.
Our position remains that, while disciplinary measures may be necessary in certain circumstances such as Abdul’s which should serve as deterrent to others. Abdulhameed is not only a constituent but also a member of our great party, the APC. Therefore, it is our responsibility to seek a peaceful and amicable resolution and subsequent release.
To those questioning our seeming silence on this issue, we want to state clearly that silence on media platforms does not equate to inaction. Diplomacy, tact, and discretion are often more effective than public declarations, especially when navigating sensitive political and legal matters.
We assure the public, especially the good people of Lokoja-Kogi Federal Constituency, that we will continue to engage all relevant authorities in pursuit of Abdulhameed’s release. Our actions may not always be loud, but they are consistent, and history and posterity will be the best judges of our intentions and efforts.
Signed,
Hon. Danladi Aguye
Member Representing Lokoja-Kogi Federal Constituency.