Minister Sues Social Media Accuser Over ₦16.5bn Bridge Diversion Claims

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A controversy surrounding the reconstruction funds for a major bridge project in Taraba State has escalated into a legal dispute after the Minister of Regional Affairs, Uba Maigeri, initiated court action against a social media critic over allegations of financial diversion.

The issue began after claims surfaced online accusing the minister of misappropriating ₦16.5 billion meant for rebuilding the collapsed Namnai Bridge located in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State. The bridge project has been a significant infrastructure concern for residents due to its importance for transportation and economic activity in the region.

Gossip News Now reports that the allegations were circulated by a social media user identified as Abdulmumuni Imam, who claimed that the minister diverted funds allocated for the reconstruction project.

Beyond the financial accusation, Imam also alleged that the minister had initiated plans to silence critics by arranging for his arrest through several security agencies.

According to the claims shared online, approval had supposedly been secured for security bodies including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to detain him.

However, the minister has strongly denied the allegations, describing them as unfounded and damaging to his reputation.

Minister’s Legal Team Responds

During a press briefing held in Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State, the minister’s legal representative, Ibrahim Effiong, addressed the controversy and dismissed the accusations as entirely false.

Effiong criticised the spread of unverified information online, warning that individuals who publish serious claims must be prepared to defend them.

He stressed that Maigeri has maintained a record of professionalism and integrity, adding that the minister—who is also a legal practitioner—has not engaged in any wrongdoing related to the bridge project.

While acknowledging that Nigerians have the constitutional right to express opinions, Effiong cautioned against the misuse of digital platforms for spreading accusations that cannot be substantiated.

He explained that the minister has chosen to resolve the matter through legal channels rather than engaging in public confrontation.

Legal Action Already Filed

According to the lawyer, the case has already been filed before the court as part of the minister’s effort to clear his name and address the claims formally.

Effiong said the court proceedings would give the accuser an opportunity to present evidence supporting the allegations.

He remarked that freedom of expression should not be interpreted as a licence to damage another person’s reputation without proof.

In his words, individuals who make serious allegations must also be ready to justify them before the law when required.

The lawyer added that Maigeri’s decision to pursue the matter legally demonstrates respect for the judicial system and confidence in due process.

Call for Responsible Public Discourse

Effiong also used the opportunity to urge Nigerians to exercise restraint and responsibility when making statements online, especially when those statements concern public officials or sensitive government projects.

He emphasised that while democratic societies encourage open dialogue, such conversations must remain within the limits defined by the law.

According to him, there must be a balance between protecting freedom of speech and preventing reputational harm caused by unverified claims.

The legal counsel also appealed for greater respect toward public office holders, suggesting that Maigeri’s response to the controversy shows a commitment to lawful procedures rather than retaliatory action.

Commentary and Analysis

The dispute highlights the growing tension between freedom of expression and accountability in the age of social media. Platforms that allow instant communication have become powerful tools for political commentary and civic engagement, but they have also created challenges related to misinformation and reputational damage.

In Nigeria, public figures increasingly turn to the courts when they believe online accusations cross the line into defamation.

For observers, the outcome of this case may influence how future disputes involving allegations made on social media are handled. If the court determines that the claims were defamatory, it could reinforce the legal consequences of spreading unverified accusations online.

At the same time, the case underscores the need for transparency in government projects, particularly large infrastructure developments like the Namnai Bridge reconstruction.

Ultimately, the court proceedings will determine whether the allegations have any factual basis or whether they constitute damaging misinformation.