Tukur Mamu, a prominent news publisher, has vehemently refuted recent allegations by the federal government of Nigeria, labeling him as a terrorist financier. In a letter addressed to the government, Mamu condemned the accusations as an attempt to tarnish his hard-earned reputation.
Through his lawyer, J.J. Usman (SAN), Mamu demanded the withdrawal of the terrorist financier designation within seven days, threatening legal action if the government fails to comply.
The controversy stems from Mamu’s ongoing trial before the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, where he faces charges related to terrorism. Despite the pending legal proceedings, Mamu asserts that no competent court has declared him a terrorist financier.
The letter, dated March 25, 2024, highlights Mamu’s dismay over a publication allegedly authorized by the Nigerian Sanctions Committee, designating him as a terrorist financier. Mamu argues that such actions violate the principles of natural justice and prejudice his ongoing trial.
The letter reads, “It is lamentable to observe that on 19/03/2024: while the case against Our Client is still pending, the social media was saturated by a publication allegedly emanating from and authorized by your good office.”
Mamu’s legal representative further contends that the Nigerian Sanctions Committee lacks the statutory mandate to make such designations, especially without a court pronouncement. The letter asserts that the government’s actions undermine the rule of law and constitute a mockery of the judicial system.
“We have no doubt about the deliberate ploy to soil the name and the hard-earned reputation of Our Client in whose favour the constitutional right to the presumption of innocence inures,” the letter states.
Mamu demands an immediate retraction of the publication within seven days, warning of legal recourse if the government fails to comply.
“Failure to comply with Our Client’s demand, we will have no hesitation in seeking redress in the Court of law for the ventilation of Our Client’s grievance,” the letter concludes.
