Tukur Mamu, the publisher of the Kaduna-based Desert Herald Newspaper, has issued a stern ultimatum to the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), demanding the retraction of claims labeling him as a terrorist financier.
In a letter dated March 25, 2024, Mamu’s legal representative, J.J. Usman, SAN, conveyed Mamu’s demand for retraction within seven days to prevent litigation.
Usman, speaking on Mamu’s behalf, emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, “We are counsel to Mr Tukur Mohammed Mamu (hereinafter referred to as our client), whose firm and absolute instructions we relate to you on the above subject matter.”
The lawyer underscored Mamu’s dismay over the publication that surfaced on social media, alleging it originated from and was authorized by the AGF’s office.
“We demand in very clear and unequivocal terms, the immediate retraction of the said publication within seven days from the receipt of the letter,” Usman asserted, highlighting Mamu’s constitutional right to the presumption of innocence and condemning the prejudicial nature of the designation.
Mamu’s legal team expressed concern over the erosion of Mamu’s reputation and accused the Federal Government of assuming an adjudicatory role in ongoing legal proceedings.
Usman warned, “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 grievances.”
The gravity of Mamu’s demand underscores the severity of the allegations and their potential ramifications on his personal and professional life.
Mamu awaits a response from the AGF, with the specter of legal action looming large. The outcome of this dispute will undoubtedly reverberate across Nigeria’s legal landscape, shaping perceptions of justice and accountability in the country.