Paragraph 1: The Genesis of the Conflict
The serene atmosphere of Calabar, Cross River State, was disrupted by an incident that spiraled into a legal battle between Godwin Nyiam, the Managing Director of the Cross River State Water Board Limited, and Major General Okoi Obono (retd), the state’s Security Adviser. The crux of the matter revolves around an alleged assault on Nyiam by Obono at a petrol station in April 2025. The alleged assault, a slap administered in public, has become the catalyst for a legal confrontation, with Nyiam seeking substantial compensation and a public apology for the humiliation and emotional distress he claims to have suffered.
Paragraph 2: Legal Action and Demands for Redress
Nyiam, through his lawyer, E. E. Osim, has initiated legal proceedings against Obono, demanding N500 million in compensation for the alleged assault. The legal action underscores Nyiam’s determination to address the perceived injustice and prevent any recurrence of such behavior. The lawsuit is not merely about financial compensation; it represents a stand against alleged abuse of power and a demand for accountability. The legal team representing Nyiam has meticulously documented the incident and the subsequent emotional distress experienced by their client. They contend that the public nature of the alleged assault exacerbated the humiliation and emotional trauma suffered by Nyiam.
Paragraph 3: The Official Petition and its Contents
A formal petition, drafted by The Advocates Chambers and addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 13 Amphibious Brigade Headquarters in Calabar, details the allegations against Obono. The petition, signed by E.E. Osim & Co and two other lawyers from the Lord Advocate, reiterates the demand for N500 million in compensation and a public apology to be published in two national newspapers. The petition serves as a formal notification to the military authorities regarding the alleged misconduct of a high-ranking security official. It emphasizes the gravity of the situation and the need for a thorough investigation into the matter.
Paragraph 4: Allegations of Intimidation and Harassment
Beyond the initial slap, the petition alleges that Obono ordered uniformed men under his command to further assault, intimidate, and harass Nyiam at the same petrol station on May 24, 2025. This allegation paints a picture of a coordinated effort to intimidate and humiliate Nyiam, escalating the initial act of aggression. The involvement of other personnel under Obono’s command raises serious questions about the potential abuse of power and the need for a thorough investigation into the chain of command and the actions of those involved.
Paragraph 5: Obono’s Denial and the Quest for Accountability
In response to inquiries about the incident, Obono vehemently denied ordering his men to assault Nyiam, questioning the basis for such an accusation. His denial adds another layer of complexity to the case, highlighting the conflicting accounts of the events that transpired. The discrepancy between Nyiam’s allegations and Obono’s denial necessitates a comprehensive investigation to determine the truth and ensure accountability for any wrongdoing. The petition specifically requests the Brigade Commander to identify and hold accountable the officers allegedly involved in the harassment of Nyiam. This request underscores the importance of transparency and due process in addressing the allegations and ensuring justice for the aggrieved party.
Paragraph 6: The Unfolding Investigation and the Search for Truth
Attempts to obtain a response from the Army’s Public Relations Officer, Capt. Jimoh Jamila, proved unsuccessful, leaving many questions unanswered. The lack of response from the military authorities at this stage underscores the need for persistent efforts to ensure transparency and accountability. As the legal proceedings unfold and the investigation progresses, the focus remains on uncovering the truth behind the conflicting accounts and ensuring that justice is served. The incident has brought to light the potential for abuse of power and the importance of upholding the rule of law, even for those in positions of authority. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the involved parties and could serve as a precedent for future cases involving allegations of misconduct by public officials.
