News
‘Malicious Slander’ — Groups Defend IBD Dende Over Smuggling Accusations
-
IBD Dende has been the subject of allegations of smuggling in recent weeks.
-
An investigative report in February 2024 named him among alleged smugglers whom corrupt Customs official allegedly allow to operate freely.
-
However, he has denied these accusations as a witch-hunt.
Eko Hot Blog reports that groups under the umbrella of the Coalition of Civil Society Groups in Nigeria have addressed allegations of smuggling levelled against the founder of IBD Dende Foundation, Ibrahim Egugungbohun Dende, better known as IBD Dende.
The groups made their position known at a press conference on Wednesday at Pinnatech Suites in Abuja.
EDITOR’S PICKS
Online news medium, FIJ, had reported an investigation of how some customs officers allegedly collude with smugglers to escape justice.
The report, which named IBD Dende as one of the most “notorious” smugglers in the country, also accused of him of gun-running.
However, he dismissed his portrayal in the report as false and reported the platform to the police for alleged cyber bullying.
Reacting to the situation, the Coalition of Civil Society Groups in Nigeria described the smuggling accusations as false and baseless attacks against IBD Dende.
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups in Nigeria at its press conference in defense of IBD Dende
The coalition, said to comprise of members and representatives from various civil society organizations, refuted what it described as unfounded claims levelled against Dende, emphasizing his contributions to community development and philanthropy through the IBD Foundation and personal outreach initiatives.
“Despite Alhaji Dende’s longstanding dedication to uplifting society and improving the lives of countless individuals through various welfare programs, donations, and infrastructure projects, he has become the target of malicious slander and defamation campaigns orchestrated by individuals purporting to be investigative journalists,” the group said.
Also reacting to a video where Dende appeared to be threatening to attack an Assistant Superintendent of Customs (ACS) who intercepted his goods, the coalition claimed that he was trying to mediate between clearing agents and customs officers.
“One such incident cited during the press conference involved aged viral videos portraying Alhaji Dende mediating between clearing agents and Customs officials,” the group stated.
“The coalition clarified that Alhaji Dende operates within the confines of the law as a certified customs licensed clearing and forwarding agent, distinguishing him from smugglers.
“Furthermore, the coalition highlighted Alhaji Dende’s diverse business ventures across multiple industries, underscoring his integrity and adherence to legal and ethical standards in all his endeavors.
“The coalition condemned the damage inflicted upon the journalism profession by those behind the baseless accusations, stressing the importance of truth, integrity, and accountability in journalism.
“In conclusion, the coalition called for retractions and public apologies from the individuals responsible for the defamation campaign. Failure to do so may result in legal action to safeguard Alhaji Dende’s reputation and integrity. Especially forestalling future reoccurrence of such elements going after Nigerians best citizens committed to society and human development.
“The press conference concluded with a rallying call to the public to reject discord and division, standing united in support of truth, integrity, and justice.”
Meanwhile, Dende has described himself as a licensed clearing and forwarding agent.
FURTHER READING
-
Guinness World Record: Tunde Onakoya Begins Marathon Chess In New York. Here’s How To Watch Him Live
-
Saraki Ally And Former Kwara Senator Rafiu Ibrahim Is Dead
-
VIDEO: Four Buildings Collapse As Fire Guts 14 Structures On Lagos Island
In a chat with reporters in March, he noted that he runs a legitimate business, alleging that there was no proper research of his dealings before the report accused him of smuggling.
Click below to watch our video of the week:
Advertise or Publish a Story on EkoHot Blog:
Kindly contact us at [email protected]. Breaking stories should be sent to the above email and substantiated with pictorial evidence.
Citizen journalists will receive a token as data incentive.
Call or Whatsapp: 0803 561 7233, 0703 414 5611
