Victor EzejaThe Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has denied the allegations that it was responsible for the tracking and leaking of the purported telephone conversation between Mr Peter Obi and the Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church, David Oyedepo.
An audio released recently was said to be that of Obi, the Labour Party Presidential candidate in the 25th February election, and Oyedepo, where Obi prior to the election, allegedly urged the cleric to help him canvass votes, especially among Christians in the Southwest.
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The release of the audio triggered reactions among Nigerians and political parties, with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) accusing Obi of creating ethno-religious division with his campaigns.
Obi in return denied preaching such a message that it was the work of the opposition elements who are bent on tarnishing his image and calling for his head.
Other Nigerians using various social media platforms, alleged that a third-party agency may have been used to track Obi’s telephone conversations, manipulated, and leaked them to the public.
Reacting to the allegation, the NCC through a statement released on Tuesday, 4th April by its Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, said it does not do such.
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Mouka explained that by “the provisions of the Nigerian Communication Act (NCA) 2003 and other extant Laws of the Federation, the Commission does not and cannot ‘track’ nor ‘leak’ telephone conversations of anyone.”
He said that the Commission has reported the allegations to relevant security agencies for proper investigations and necessary actions.
The statement reads: “The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has been inundated with enquiries by the media on allegations of telephone “tracking” and “leakage” made against the Commission by some individuals and groups in the social and alternative Media.
“The Commission wishes to make the following clarifications:
i. The Commission denies the allegations in their entirety.
ii. By the provisions of the Nigerian Communication Act (NCA) 2003 and other extant Laws of the Federation, the Commission does not and cannot “track” nor “leak” telephone conversations of anyone.
iii. The Commission has reported the allegations, which we take seriously, to relevant security agencies for proper investigation and necessary action.
iv. The Commission restates its commitment to discharge its responsibilities to the Nigerian people in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; the NCA 2003; and other extant Laws of the Federation; and global best practices.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Commission denies these allegations and advises the public to disregard them.”
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
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