In a dramatic turn of events that captured public attention across Adamawa State, popular social critic and political commentator, Umar Calculate, was granted bail today following a high-profile detention over allegations of defamation. The accusations stemmed from a widely circulated audio clip in which Calculate allegedly insulted a prominent individual, sparking a petition that led to his arrest.
Former Senator Ishaku Abbo, popularly known as ‘SIA’ who has been vocally critical of the detention, addressed journalists shortly after the bail was secured. He accused the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Bala Kalu, and his father, the revered elder statesman Alhaji Sadiq Mohammed, popularly known as Walin Ganye, of orchestrating the arrest in what he described as political intimidation against Calculate’s bold critiques of the government.
Despite these allegations, Senator Abbo’s tone at today’s press briefing was conciliatory and respectful, especially toward Walin Ganye, whom he described as “a father to all, a bridge-builder, and a man of peace.”
“This is not war,” Abbo stated. “It’s a family misunderstanding, and I believe it will be resolved peacefully at home. Our father, Walin Ganye, is a man who has nurtured unity across ethnic, religious, and political divides. He has no appetite for vengeance.”
He further revealed that after initially reacting to the case with limited information, he later reviewed several media reports and realized there were nuances he had missed. “Yesterday, we visited Walin Ganye and his sons. Today, we saw Umar Calculate. The goal is peace. We have hunger in Adamawa, we have disease, we can’t add internal conflicts to the burden.”
The senator went on to commend the legal team for their swift and professional handling of the matter. He expressed satisfaction that the initial magistrate’s handling of the case had been reviewed and overruled by a higher court, ensuring that due process was finally respected.
“This is a bailable offense. We’re happy that justice is being served. The rule of law has prevailed, and that’s all we ever asked for,” Abbo added.
Speaking on behalf of Umar Calculate’s legal team, lead counsel Barr. Desmond Adekunle hailed today’s ruling as a triumph of democracy and justice.
“Our client was never served any court summons. He was arrested in what looked more like a scene from a James Bond movie — taken from the airport and thrown into prison without due process. That is why we filed an ex parte motion for judicial review, and we are grateful the court granted him temporary bail pending further determination,” Adekunle said.
He noted that the complainant filed charges of criminal trespass and defamation, yet Umar was denied the opportunity to defend himself through regular legal channels. “Today’s ruling is not just a relief for our client, it’s a victory for every Nigerian who believes in the rule of law.”
As tensions simmer down, all eyes are now on the next steps in this legal saga. But for many, including Senator Abbo, the focus has shifted from confrontation to reconciliation — thanks in large part to the calming influence of Walin Ganye, whose reputation as a compassionate and just elder remains untouched by the controversy.
“Walin Ganye is a father to the people — a symbol of wisdom, tolerance, and unity,” the senator concluded. “We plead with him to embrace Umar as a son once more so that peace can reign in our state.”
PIONEER NEWS 