Minister Maigeri Denies Diverting N16.5bn Bridge Funds, Files Lawsuit

The Minister of Regional Affairs, Uba Maigeri, has emphatically refuted allegations circulating on social media that he diverted N16.5 billion allocated for the reconstruction of the collapsed Namnai Bridge in the Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State.

Dependable NG reports that the accusations were leveled by a social media user named Abdulmumuni Imam, who also claimed that the minister was actively plotting to have him arrested for criticizing the government’s handling of the critical infrastructure project. Imam further alleged that the Minister had secretly secured a directive authorizing the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to detain him.

Speaking to journalists on Friday in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, the minister’s legal counsel, Dr. Ibrahim Effiong, dismissed all the allegations as completely unfounded and malicious.

Effiong expressed deep concern over individuals “spreading rumors they cannot justify,” stressing that Maigeri, whom he described as “a reputable member of the bar,” had committed no wrongdoing. While acknowledging that Nigerians are entitled to the freedom of expression, the counsel warned that such rights should not be abused.

“People should not use social media to run others down. If you make serious allegations, you must also be ready to justify them when called upon,” Effiong stated.

The counsel confirmed that the Minister has already taken the matter to court in pursuit of legal justice, commending Maigeri and his supporters for opting for due process. He urged Nigerians to exercise their freedom of expression responsibly and in accordance with constitutional provisions.

“The matter is already before the court,” Effiong noted, directly calling on Imam to appear and substantiate his claims. He added that Maigeri, like every citizen, has the right to seek legal remedy, reminding the public that “The hands of the law cannot be too short. We must know that where your right starts, it also ends somewhere.”

Effiong concluded by calling for greater respect for public officials, asserting that the Minister’s measured approach to the controversy demonstrated commendable restraint and a commitment to due process.