Modibbo Kawu
Do people think once they say, “We believe”, that they will be left without being tested? We certainly tested those before them. And in this way Allah will distinguish between those who are truthful and those who are liars -Qur’an 29: 2-3.
Exactly a year ago today, the Federal High Court discharged and acquitted us, after a six-year trial and an ordeal which commenced eight years ago in 2018, with an invitation by the ICPC. Those were some of the most difficult personal and professional moments of my life.
We didn’t only go through the trial in court, but we were also at the receiving end of an orchestrated and scurrilous media and social media trial. The purpose was a desperate desire to tarnish our reputation and to set to naught decades of unblemished professionalism in broadcasting, journalism, and media regulation. What kept me going was the confidence that I had not committed an offence. I felt that justice would eventually be done and we will be free. No matter how long it took, darkness would give way to the light of day. That verdict came a year ago. The three-count charge against me was dismissed. One year down the line, we are here, standing tall.
The conspiracy of the wretched liars was destroyed by the Federal High Court. They went everywhere requesting advice on how I could be removed as DG of the NBC. It was that personal, but it was also a fight that conveyed deep hatred against our history and the community that I came from.
Ama, Allah ba azalumin kowa bane. Today, they are no longer relevant in the scheme of things. Now, they are a pitiful sight, held in utter contempt by decent folks in our country. Their epitaph, even while still walking around, has already been constructed: treachery and lies. Lies and more lies!
Freedom has spread its wings like a bird, to paraphrase the poet and singer, Gil-Scot Heron, and the message it carries is being heard all over our country and around the world. Believe me, it feels truly good to be free. Alhamdulilah!
Fight them. Allah will punish them by your hands and will disgrace them and give you victory over them and satisfy the breasts of a believing people* . Qur’an 9: 20.
Dr. Modibbo Kawu, FNGE.
Abuja, February 13th, 2026.
