By Edet Ikotidem

The alleged statement by Dr. Anthony Luke, a government official in Akwa Ibom State, reportedly linking dispatch riders with drug trafficking and gun running is deeply disturbing and should not be swept under the carpet.

Alleged Labeling of Dispatch Riders as Drug Traffickers, Gun Runners: Dr. Anthony Luke Must Explain Himself

This comes following a statement by the union  and signed Comr. Uwakmfon Umoeka (UUE) State Publicity Secretary, ‎National Union of Dispatch Riders and Mail Operators of Nigeria (NUDRMON), Akwa Ibom State Chapter.

This is not a minor issue. It is a matter that touches on the reputation, dignity and livelihood of thousands of hardworking young Nigerians who depend on dispatch riding to survive in an increasingly difficult economy.

Dr. Anthony Luke Must Explain Himself

Across Akwa Ibom State, dispatch riders provide essential services. They deliver food, documents, medicines, parcels and other items to individuals, businesses and institutions. Many young people have embraced the profession because they are determined to earn an honest living rather than depend on government or engage in criminal activities.

Therefore, any attempt by a government official to broadly associate dispatch riders with drug trafficking and gun running, if accurately reported, is a serious matter that demands an explanation.

Government officials must understand the weight of their words. When an ordinary citizen makes an unverified statement, the damage may be limited. But when a person holding public office makes such an allegation, the statement carries the authority of government. It can stigmatise an entire profession, damage businesses and create suspicion against innocent citizens.

Dr. Anthony Luke must therefore explain the basis of such an allegation. Where is the evidence? Are there official intelligence reports? Are there arrests and convictions involving dispatch riders? If such evidence exists, it should be presented through the appropriate law-enforcement channels. But if there is no credible evidence, then such a sweeping allegation is reckless, irresponsible and unacceptable.

The government cannot claim to be promoting peace, investment, youth empowerment and economic development while its officials make statements capable of destroying the reputation of legitimate businesses and workers.

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The issue also raises questions about the quality of official communication within the government. Is it now acceptable for public officials to make serious criminal allegations against an entire group of citizens without evidence? Is the government comfortable with statements that may expose it to public condemnation and possible legal consequences?

The Commissioner responsible for the official, or the relevant authority, should not remain silent. An investigation should be conducted to establish exactly what was said, the context in which it was said and the evidence supporting the allegation.

If the allegation was made without evidence, then disciplinary action should follow. A public official who makes reckless statements capable of bringing the government into disrepute must be held accountable. Public office is not a licence to destroy people’s reputations.

This is not about protecting criminals. If any dispatch rider is involved in drug trafficking, gun running or any other criminal activity, the person should be arrested and prosecuted according to the law. But criminality must be addressed through evidence and due process—not through blanket accusations against an entire profession.

Akwa Ibom State deserves a government that speaks responsibly and protects the dignity of its citizens. The people also deserve officials who understand that every public statement has consequences.

If Dr. Anthony Luke indeed made the alleged statement, then he owes the people of Akwa Ibom, dispatch riders and the government an explanation.

And if the allegation is found to be baseless, reckless or damaging to the image of the government, then the authorities must have the courage to take decisive action.

No public officer should be allowed to bring an entire government into disrepute through careless and unsubstantiated allegations