Jones Abiri, Journalist and Yenagoa based Publisher standing
trial for alleged involvement in militancy on Wednesday said he was optimistic
of getting justice.
Abiri arrived the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ)
Press centre to the warm embrace of his wife, children, fellow journalists and
family members.
Abiri who was arrested by Department of State Services
(DSS) in July 2016 and detained for over two years without trial was arraigned
before a Magistrates’ court in August 2018 and subsequently granted bail.
Speaking at a reception organised to welcome him to Yenagoa
two years after his ordeal, Abiri said that contrary to the views held by the
DSS, he was ready to face his trial and prove his innocence.
Abiri, a law student before his incarceration, applauded
the civil rights community, media and public spirited individuals who advocated
for his release from DSS.
He expressed gratitude to the Bayelsa council of NUJ for
the warm reception accorded him and the support during his incarceration.
In a goodwill message, Niger Delta Rights Activist Ms
Annkio Briggs noted that it took the intervention of Amnesty International to
draw public attention to the abuse of Abiri’s human rights.
“I only became aware of the ungodly and evil predicament breach
of Abiri’s basic and fundamental human rights and professional rights after
Amnesty International raised the matter.
“I am proud of you and I am so happy that you are back
home to your family, people and region, from here on, you will never walk alone,”
Briggs said.
Mr John Angese, Chairman of Bayelsa Council of NUJ noted that
Abiri was a member of the NUJ and discredited earlier reports that Abiri was
not on NUJ register.
“Let me state that Jones Abiri is one of us here in
Bayelsa, we cannot deny him because of the allegations levelled against him.
“Our position has always been that he should be presented
in court, now that the matter is in court, the judiciary should be allowed to
determine if he is guilty or not.
“We appeal to our colleagues to be cautious in reportage
of this reception and avoid comments that will jeopardise the trial,” Angese
said.
In her vote of thanks, Mrs Philomena Kenere, Abiri’s
sister said that the family was delighted to have Abiri reunite with them.
She expressed appreciation to all those that supported
the family through the challenge of Abiri’s absence
“
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