A human rights lawyer, Akpan Ini-Abasi Esq., has issued a scathing open letter to the editor of the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR) Nigeria, accusing the organization of “manipulative and misleading journalism” in its recent article titled, “Claim that video shows Hope Uzodinma absolving IPOB of insecurity is misleading.”

In the strongly worded letter, Ini-Abasi Esq. alleges that ICIR’s headline contradicts the content of its own article, creating a deliberate distortion of Governor Hope Uzodinma’s statements.

The lawyer asserts that while the headline suggests Uzodinma implicated the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in insecurity, the article itself acknowledges that the governor explicitly absolved the group of responsibility.

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“This contradiction between your headline and the article’s content is not a mere oversight; it is a calculated attempt to mislead readers and push a narrative that aligns with external agendas, reportedly influenced by government sponsorship,” Ini-Abasi Esq. wrote.

The lawyer condemned what he termed “gutter journalism,” accusing ICIR of using “sensationalist headlines” to “distort the truth” and “fuel division.” He argued that such practices undermine public trust and contribute to the spread of disinformation.

“By framing the article in a manner that misrepresents Uzodinma’s statements, ICIR Nigeria is complicit in spreading disinformation, a practice unbecoming of any outlet claiming credibility,” the letter stated.

Ini-Abasi Esq. demanded that ICIR Nigeria immediately retract the misleading headline, issue a public apology for the “deliberate distortion,” and commit to upholding journalistic standards that prioritize truth over propaganda.

“The people of Nigeria are not pawns to be misled by government-sponsored blogging sites masquerading as independent media. This practice of deceit must stop, and your organization must be held accountable for its role in eroding trust in journalism,” the letter concluded.

The open letter has sparked debate on social media and within journalistic circles, raising questions about media ethics and the responsibility of news outlets to maintain accuracy and impartiality. ICIR Nigeria has yet to issue a public response to the allegations.