Federal Polytechnic student Sharon Ogechi Okoroafor, who recently made a statement that went viral on social media, has hired a lawyer to defend her. The statement made by Okoroafor caused quite a stir on social media and many people expressed their opinions on the matter. The situation quickly escalated and the young student felt the need to seek legal representation.
The lawyer who was hired by Okoroafor made an appeal to the institution’s management, stating that their client never intended to defame the character, standards, or integrity of the Federal Polytechnic. The lawyer went on to explain that Okoroafor’s statement was made in the heat of the moment and was not meant to cause harm. The lawyer emphasized that Okoroafor is a responsible and hardworking student who has always upheld the values and standards of the institution.
The statement reads;
Re: THE CASE OF OKOROAFOR OGECHI SHARON(THE GRADUATING STUDENT OF FED POLYNEK IN A VIRAL VIDEO)
“We are solicitors to OKEREAFOR OGECHI SHARON (our Client under our Pro Bono (Free Legal Services) on whose behalf we write this memo to you.
We are aware that she will be facing the school disciplinary panel this morning and we wish to use this medium to express our confidence that the panel will carry out their duties in compliance with the principles of Fair hearing, Good conscience and Natural Justice devoid of harassment, intimidation and threats.
We have met and discussed with our Client and evidence before us shows that she has no intention to defame the character, standard and integrity of the institution. In her words what happened in the said viral video was a slip of tongue as a result of her uncontrollable ecstacy over her graduation. Her intended words were “God and Pupsy” (Not P*ssy) in appreciation of the almighty God and her Dad. It is clear therefore, that she had no intention whatsoever to use such a “fowl word” in the said viral video to cajole or blackmail the institution as no lecturer or name of the institution was mentioned or referred in the said viral video.
Our lawyers are already on ground at the institution now to follow up the proceedings at the panel against any form of intimidation or harassment.The integrity and standard of the said institution is not in doubt especially since my Senior brother, Rev Dr Arimanwa took over as the Rector.”
The institution’s management is yet to respond to the appeal made by the lawyer. Regardless of the outcome, the situation serves as a reminder to us all of the importance of being mindful of what we say and how we say it, especially on social media.
Social media has the power to amplify our words and reach a wider audience, which can have serious consequences. It is essential that we think twice before we speak, and consider the impact that our words may have on others.
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