The Minister of Regional Affairs, Uba Maigeri, has firmly denied allegations that he diverted N16.5 billion meant for the reconstruction of the collapsed Namnai Bridge in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State. The accusations, which have circulated widely on social media, were made by a user identified as Abdulmumuni Imam, who claimed that the minister not only misused public funds but was also attempting to use security agencies to intimidate him.
Imam, in his online posts, alleged that Maigeri had “diverted” the funds allocated for the construction project and had secretly secured orders authorising the Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to arrest and detain him for criticising the project’s handling. The claims gained traction on social media, with many Nigerians expressing concern and demanding government explanation.
However, on Friday in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, the minister’s legal counsel, Dr. Ibrahim Effiong, described the allegations as completely unfounded, malicious, and targeted at damaging the reputation of a public officer who, according to him, had done nothing wrong. Effiong noted that the issue had now been submitted to the court for legal determination.
The Namnai Bridge, located in Gassol Local Government Area, is a crucial link for residents, traders, and farmers in Taraba State. Its collapse in mid-2024 disrupted transportation and commercial activities, leaving thousands of people cut off from neighbouring communities. The federal government subsequently approved funds for its reconstruction, with the Ministry of Regional Affairs overseeing the project.
The N16.5 billion allocation drew public attention due to the urgent nature of the project, especially during the rainy season when access roads become nearly impassable. As a result, speculation and scrutiny around the progress of the reconstruction have been intense.
Many Nigerians, frustrated by delays in public projects, have grown increasingly vocal about demanding accountability from government agencies. It was within this environment of public distrust that Imam’s allegations gained widespread online engagement.
‘Rumours Without Evidence Are Dangerous’ — Minister’s Counsel
Speaking during a press briefing, Dr. Effiong emphasised that the minister had no reason to divert funds or intimidate critics. Instead, he said Maigeri had chosen to follow due legal process by taking the matter before a court.
He expressed disappointment that some individuals “spread rumours they cannot justify,” stressing that such behaviour contributes to misinformation and undermines trust in government institutions.
“People should not use social media to run others down,” he told journalists. “If you make serious allegations, you must also be ready to justify them when called upon.”
Effiong noted that although freedom of expression is a constitutional right, it must be exercised responsibly and not used as a tool for character assassination. He argued that public officers also have rights that must be protected, including the right to defend their reputation through legal means.
According to Effiong, the minister has already initiated legal action against Imam, seeking redress through the courts. He stated that the case is active and urged Imam to appear and defend the allegations he made publicly.
“The matter is already before the court,” Effiong said. “The minister has every right, like any Nigerian, to seek legal remedy. The hands of the law cannot be too short.”
He stressed that Imam must now be prepared to provide evidence to support his claims, noting that social media allegations, no matter how widely circulated, cannot replace legal proof.
Although Effiong did not dwell on the allegation that the minister ordered security agencies to arrest Imam, sources within the security sector have reportedly denied receiving any such directive. No official statement has yet been issued by the Police, DSS, or NSCDC, but officers familiar with arrest procedures noted that detention orders cannot be issued secretly without documented approval.
The incident highlights the growing tension between public officials and citizens in an age where information — whether true or false — spreads rapidly through social media platforms. While social media has become a powerful tool for exposing corruption and demanding accountability, it has also become a platform where misinformation can quickly damage reputations.
Nigeria has experienced several high-profile incidents in recent years where unverified claims sparked major public reactions before facts emerged. Legal experts argue that citizens must balance their right to speak freely with the responsibility to verify information before sharing it.
Effiong echoed this view, calling on Nigerians to exercise caution when posting accusations online.
Effiong commended Maigeri for choosing legal means rather than responding emotionally to the allegations. He said the minister’s decision demonstrated “restraint and respect for the rule of law,” qualities he described as essential for building a responsible and stable society.
“If all Nigerians will be like the minister, I believe Nigeria will be a great country,” he stated.
He urged the public to respect government officials who are performing their duties and reminded citizens that public criticism should not cross into defamation.
With the matter now in court, legal practitioners expect a series of hearings where both parties will present their evidence. If Imam fails to appear or substantiate his claims, he may face legal consequences, including potential damages for defamation.
Meanwhile, residents of Gassol and the surrounding communities continue to watch closely, hoping that the bridge reconstruction will proceed without further controversy. Many locals have urged federal authorities to provide regular updates on the project to avoid misinformation and speculation.
