The Ijaw Publishers Forum, IPF, has explained its decision to withdraw the proposed N50BN defamation lawsuit against Vanguard newspaper regarding the article alleging “Irate Ijaw Youth Kills Soldiers” in Okuama Community, Delta State.
The group asserted that the report was a deliberate attempt to distort facts and incite the military against the Ijaw community, leading to significant military aggression in Ijaw communities in Delta and Bayelsa States.
President Comrade Austin Ozobo emphasized that the withdrawal of the lawsuit was prompted by Vanguard’s correction of the misleading information and online headlines following IPF’s demand for an apology and correction.
IPF also cited the unwavering support of Vanguard’s South-South regional editor, Emma Amaze, in highlighting the marginalization of the Niger Delta and his commitment to the region’s development despite provocation. Despite their grievances, IPF acknowledged recurring conspiracy theories originating from Vanguard, particularly concerning critical issues affecting the Ijaw people.
Despite dropping the litigation, IPF insisted that Vanguard’s mischievous reports, such as the Okuama incident, had incited violence and arrests in Ijaw communities. However, they expressed forgiveness towards Vanguard due to Emma Amaze’s significant contributions to mentoring Ijaw individuals in the media and activism.
IPF maintained that the legal battle would have strained Amaze’s relationship with the Ijaw people, given his coverage area in the Niger Delta. They appealed to Vanguard’s publisher, Mr. Sam Amuka-Pemu, to refrain from slander, defamation, and incitement against the Ijaw nation and its people to avoid jeopardizing their patronage. The decision to withdraw the lawsuit was made in good faith and in the best interest of the group, as communicated to their legal counsel.
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