Kennedy Osamwonyi Oriakhi, a concerned citizen, has submitted a petition to the Honourable Attorney General of Edo State, demanding an investigation into the alleged inappropriate online behavior of Ms. Winifred Akpata, a state counsel employed by the Edo State Ministry of Justice.
The petition accuses Ms. Akpata of engaging in unprofessional and unethical conduct on social media, formerly using the handle @AkpataWini, which has brought disrepute to the Ministry and the legal profession as a whole. Oriakhi highlights that Ms. Akpata’s social media posts have been characterized by vitriolic language, personal attacks, and a blatant disregard for professional decorum.
“Ms. Akpata has taken to the digital realm, wielding her social media account as a weapon of mass disruption, spewing venom and vitriol upon all who dare to cross her path,” Oriakhi stated. He has attached numerous screenshots to the petition as evidence of Ms. Akpata’s alleged misconduct. These posts include offensive comments directed at various individuals, including political figures and public personalities.
One particularly concerning instance cited in the petition occurred on May 9, 2024, when Ms. Akpata tweeted about the ongoing case involving Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin. In her tweet, she criticized the Oba, stating, “The Oba of Benin must lead by example! Gone are the days when we just follow sheepishly.” Oriakhi argues that this tweet, made while the Honourable Attorney General was in court for the case, demonstrated a severe lack of discretion and could be misinterpreted as reflecting the position of the State Government.
Petition Against Winifred Akpata Complete TheNigeriaLawyer
Oriakhi contends that Ms. Akpata’s actions not only violate civil service rules and the code of conduct for public officers but also undermine public trust in the legal system. He urges the Attorney General to initiate an immediate and thorough investigation into the matter and to take appropriate disciplinary measures.
“The legal profession is a sacred calling, a noble endeavor that demands the utmost respect for the rule of law and the principles of justice,” Oriakhi emphasized. He believes that swift action is necessary to prevent the erosion of professionalism and ethical standards within the Ministry of Justice.
The petition concludes with a call to restore the dignity and honor of the Edo State Ministry of Justice, ensuring that its members are held to the highest standards of ethical conduct. Oriakhi awaits a response from the Attorney General and hopes for decisive measures to address the issue.
As this matter unfolds, the public remains watchful, expecting the Ministry to uphold its commitment to justice, professionalism, and the rule of law.
The post Concerned Citizen Petitions Edo State Attorney General To Investigate State Counsel Winifred Akpata’s Alleged Online Misconduct appeared first on Barristers.NG.