I believe in Nigerian Judiciary says Jones Abiri

Jones Abiri

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