Cross River Water Board MD Sues Governor’s Security Adviser Over Alleged Assault, Demands N500 Million Compensation
Dr. Godwin Nyiam, the Managing Director of the Cross River State Water Board Limited, has taken legal action against retired Major General Okoi Obono, the Security Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu, over an alleged physical assault. The incident, which has sparked public concern, reportedly occurred on May 24, 2025, at Fogg Petrol Station in Calabar, the state capital.
According to Nyiam’s legal representative, Barrister E.E. Osim, his client is demanding N500 million in damages from General Obono for allegedly slapping him in public—a move he claims caused severe emotional distress, humiliation, intimidation, and physical pain.
The legal petition, filed by The Advocates Chambers, outlines the events leading to the altercation. It alleges that not only did the Security Adviser physically assault Dr. Nyiam, but he also instructed his accompanying security operatives to further intimidate, harass, and physically rough up the Water Board MD, deepening the public humiliation he suffered.
In the detailed petition addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 13 Amphibious Brigade Headquarters in Calabar, Nyiam’s legal team has demanded a formal apology from the Security Adviser. They are requesting that the apology be published in two national newspapers, citing violations of Nyiam’s fundamental human rights. The letter, bearing the reference number TAC/ADM/001/Vol.1/2024, was signed by E.E. Osim & Co. along with two other lawyers from The Lord Advocate chambers.
The petition also called on the Brigade Commander to exercise his authority in identifying and bringing to justice the military operatives who allegedly carried out the harassment under General Obono’s orders.
Speaking to The Nation newspaper, the Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Okoi Obono (retired), denied the allegations, particularly the claim that he ordered any of his men to assault Dr. Nyiam. “On what grounds will I do that, please?” he asked, expressing surprise at the accusations leveled against him.
Meanwhile, attempts to reach the Nigerian Army’s Public Relations Officer, Captain Jimoh Jamila, for an official response were unsuccessful. As of the time of reporting, Jamila had not responded to multiple calls and text messages sent since Thursday afternoon.
The legal dispute has triggered conversations about abuse of power, civil-military relations, and the protection of citizens’ rights in the face of political authority. With litigation looming, the case is expected to draw public attention as it unfolds in the legal arena.