Governor Ben Ayade expresses his support for the release of Agba Jalingo, the publisher of Cross River Watch, who has been detained for months on charges of treason. Governor Ayade denied any involvement in the journalist’s arrest, claiming that the prosecution is being carried out by the Federal Government. He alleged that Jalingo’s involvement in politics, particularly in the #RevolutionNow protest led by Omoyele Sowore, has led to his arrest and trial.
According to Governor Ayade, Agba Jalingo’s participation in the protest marked a departure from his journalistic role to that of a political activist attempting to overthrow the government. He emphasized that the treason charges against Jalingo are being pursued by the Federal Government, not the Cross River State.
Governor Ayade attributed Jalingo’s activism to youthful exuberance and expressed his desire to see the journalist released. He claimed to be collaborating with Jalingo’s lawyers to secure his freedom, stating that he is supporting Jalingo and providing for his needs.
Prior to Governor Ayade’s recent statement, Agba Jalingo had been on trial for reporting that alleged the diversion of N500 million meant for Cross River State. His case was listed among the “most urgent” threats to press freedom worldwide in November 2019.