Why we step down N50BN defamation suit against Vanguard -IPF

Why we step down N50BN defamation suit against Vanguard -IPF

The Ijaw Publishers Forum, IPF, has stated why it decided to step down move to slam Vanguard newspaper N50BN naira defamation suit over report alleging that "Irate Ijaw Youth Kills Soldiers" in Okuama Community in Ughelli Local government area of Delta State.

The report, according to the group was a grand plot to twist facts and to incite the military against Ijaw nation in the Okuama killing, adding that Ijaw communities both in Delta and Bayelsa States had face great military onslaught following the mischievous Vanguard report.

In a statement signed by its President Comrade Austin Ozobo emphasised that the group decided to step down the N50BN suit following the subsequent correction of the misleading information and online headline upon the demand for correction and apology by IPF.

IPF further stated that the move to step down its action was due to the overwhelming support of the Vanguard South-South regional editor, Emma Amaze for amplifying the marginalization of Niger Delta, adding that his true support for the development of Niger Delta region was greatly acknowledged even in the face of provocation.

The Publishers said their anger arose following the reoccurring conspiracy theory emanating from the Okuama killing and other critical issues concerning Ijaw people, noting that such always come from Vanguard newspaper.

The apex Ijaw press council despite decided to drop litigation against the paper, insisted that the massive killing of Ijaws in Igbomotoro community, invasion of High Chief Dr E.K Clark home and other invasions and arrest of Ijaw people in Delta and Bayelsa were incited by the mischievous report from Vanguard newspaper.

The group said it would forgive Vanguard because Emma Amaze, its South-South regional editor had contributed much in mentoring some Ijaw sons and daughters in the media, and others who chose activism in career part.

IPF maintained that though Vanguard is not about Emma Amaze but since it happened in his coverage area which is the Niger Delta, directly or indirectly the intended legal battle would have affected his relationship with the people of Ijaw nation.

The group appealed to their brother Mr Sam Amuka-Pemu, the publisher of Vanguard newspaper to always guide against slander, defamation and inciting reports against the Ijaw nation and its people, noting that the group had witnessed several of such reports, and that if it continued to repeat itself, Ijaw nation would reacts unfriendly, and such is capable of destroying Ijaw patronage for Vanguard newspaper.

The Ijaw news agency, said it had briefed its lawyer of the intention to step down the litigation processes, adding that the decision was taken in good fate and for the best interest of the group.