A Member Representing Nnewi North Federal Constituency at the National Assembly Hon. Augustine Onyekachukwu Ike has expressed strong frustration over the media trial of Mmesoma regarding her JAMB result.
In a statement, the lawmaker voiced concern and disapproval over the way Mmesoma’s case has been sensationalized and discussed in the media without proper legal proceedings. The lawmaker argued that such a “trial by media” approach undermines the principles of justice and fairness.
The lawmaker emphasized that everyone is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty in a court of law. They urged the media and the public to refrain from forming premature judgments or engaging in character assassination based solely on unverified information or allegations.
The lawmaker called for a fair and impartial investigation into Mmesoma’s JAMB result, where all relevant evidence can be properly examined and due process can be followed. They emphasized the importance of respecting the rights of individuals and allowing the legal system to take its course without undue interference or undue influence from media coverage.
Furthermore, the lawmaker urged the media to exercise responsible journalism by reporting accurate and verified information, maintaining the highest ethical standards, and avoiding sensationalism or speculation that could harm the reputation and rights of individuals involved in legal cases.
In a statement issued on Monday, the lawmaker criticized the admission body for resorting to a media trial of the school girl instead of conducting a discreet investigation to uncover the truth before making public statements.
“My attention was drawn to the media trial of my constituent; Ejikeme, Joy Mmesoma championed by Jamb Registrar Prof. Oloyede, whom accused her directly of faking result to win scholarship.
“On this day Monday, 3rd July, I decided to visit her school and was further directed to her house.
“After listening to this intelligent young chap, I wept over the psychological trauma the incompetence of our system is about to push the young girl into,
“Evidences before me showed that the young Mmesoma has been consistent in leading her class from Nursery school till date.
“Thus, this brings to question even the official result announced by Jamb following the obvious irregularities.
“Presently, I tried using the short code with her number to access her result for an hour, the effort proved abortive.
“While it’s very unlikely that the people announced by JAMB Registrar can do better than Ejikeme, Joy Mmesoma, if placed under the same examination condition.
“I strongly insist that the Jamb Registrar retracts his damaging press conference on my constituent pending conclusion of the investigation by the Police.”