By Our Reporter
A youth group in the Bali local government area of Taraba State has threatened legal action against Mr. Nuru Alhijo, a social media user, following a publication that has been verified by relevant authorities to be false and defamatory against Hon. Habu James Philip, the Taraba State Commissioner for Cooperative and Poverty Alleviation.
Recently, Mr. Alhijo published an article containing allegations of molestation and harassment against the commissioner.
However, after an investigation, concerned authorities confirmed that these claims were untrue and aimed at damaging the commissioner’s reputation and discrediting Governor Agbu Kefas’s administration.
In response, the youth group, led by President Mr. Micky Habu, has demanded that Mr. Alhijo retract his publication within seven days or face legal consequences.
The group characterized Alhijo’s actions as a result of malicious envy, suggesting they may be motivated by political opponents of Governor Kefas.
“Dear Nuru Alhijo, your recent open letter regarding the Commissioner for Cooperative and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Habu James Philip, has come to our attention. While we acknowledge your democratic right to express your opinions, it is concerning that you chose to publish unverified allegations that are not only defamatory but appear to serve a malicious purpose.
“We urge you to refrain from being used by political detractors who aim to tarnish the reputations of hardworking individuals within Governor Kefas’s administration. Hon. Habu James Philip is a respected public servant whose efforts to combat poverty and empower youth in Taraba State have been widely recognized.
“Your claims against the commissioner lack evidence and seem designed to mislead the public. Such unfounded accusations reflect poorly on you and do not represent the youth of the Bali Local Government Area whom you claim to represent.
“Instead of spreading misinformation, we encourage you to channel your energy into constructive activities that will enrich your life and contribute to the development of your community.
“We demand that you immediately retract your defamatory statements against Hon. Habu James Philip within seven (7) days of receiving this notice. Failure to comply will leave us no choice but to initiate legal proceedings to protect the commissioner’s reputation and integrity.
“Let this serve as a final warning to cease publishing defamatory and unfounded allegations. The administration of Governor Agbu Kefas values constructive engagement and dialogue, not baseless attacks on its officials,” the group emphasized.