A prominent human rights group, the Young Nigerian Rights Organization (YNRO), has called for the immediate withdrawal of criminal suits filed against Delta-based investigative journalist, Fejiro Oliver, describing the legal action as an assault on journalism, activism, and democracy.
Speaking through its National Coordinator, Comrade Victor Ojei, popularly known as Wong Box Nigeria, the organisation appealed directly to Senator Ede Dafinone and Stella Okotete, two influential figures named in the suits, to reconsider their actions and embrace a more democratic and tolerant path.
He noted that he holds both Dafinone and Okotete in high personal and professional regard.
“I have always believed in the goodness of leadership and the dignity of public service.
”My appeal to them is not made out of hostility but from a place of deep respect and admiration, ” Ojei said.
He recounted his brief but memorable encounter with Senator Dafinone at the National Assembly two years ago, praising his humility and calm demeanor.
He also commended Okotete for her inspiring rise through the political and financial sectors, particularly her work as Executive Director at the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM).
However, Ojei made it clear that admiration should not deter accountability.
“It is precisely because I hold these personalities in such high regard that I am deeply pained by the current developments.
“I appeal to them to consider withdrawing their criminal complaints against Fejiro Oliver—not as a sign of weakness but as a show of statesmanship and humanity, ” he said.
The Organisation emphasised that the case against Oliver, reportedly filed under cybercrime laws was widely perceived by the public as an attempt to silence a critical voice rather than pursue justice.
According to Ojei, such actions threaten the foundational pillars of a democratic society.
“This issue transcends individuals. It touches the soul of our democracy.
“Deltans are watching. The world is watching. This is not merely about cybercrime or defamation, it is being seen as an attack on journalism, activism, and freedom of expression, ” he said.
The group argued that democracy thrived on criticism, scrutiny, and accountability.
“If one cannot bear public scrutiny, then one must reconsider holding public office
“Leadership is not a throne insulated from the people’s voice. It is a sacred trust built on transparency and tolerance, even in the face of dissent, ” he added.
The organisation condemned the use of cybercrime legislation to prosecute speech or publications, labeling it a misuse of legal tools intended for national security, not civic engagement.
Citing international and regional human rights instruments, Ojei pointed to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, to which Nigeria is a signatory, and the ECOWAS Court of Justice, which has repeatedly ruled against the criminalization of defamation.
“The honourable path is civil litigation, not criminal prosecution.
“If anyone feels defamed, let the courts assess damages in a civil case. That is justice—not intimidation, ” he said.
According to the group, the suit against Fejiro Oliver, represented by human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, Esq. is not just a legal matter but a test of Nigeria’s democratic values, Delta’s political conscience, and the maturity of its leadership.
Ojei therefore urged all parties involved to set aside personal grievances and rise to the higher moral calling of leadership.
“This is a time to heal, not to hurt. To guide, not to gag. To build, not to break,” he said.
Warning that “Deltans will not forget,” the group urged stakeholders to reflect on how history will judge their actions.
“When the time comes, history will remember who stood for justice—and who stood against it.
“Let this be the moment where grace triumphs over pride, ” he added.
The statement also named a number of Delta State officials, civil society figures, and online influencers, urging them to take a stand on the matter.
Among them were Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Ossai Ovie Success, Harrison Gwamnishu, and others.
