Nzeh James Apologizes To Ohakim

Nzeh, James Chinonyerem, author of the contentious article titled ” Taking Imo Backwards: The Ikedi Ohakim Comeback Call,” has rendered to former Governor Ikedi Ohakim of Imo State, “an unreserved apology”, and pleaded for forgiveness from him. The article in question considered to be toxic was published sometime in June, 2025. It was laced with unsubstantiated allegations and libellous commentaries against Ohakim, prompting a deluge of public condemnations.

To avert being slammed with a libellous suit with heavy legal costs attached thereto, Nzeh, who hails from Emii in Owerri North Local Government Area of the State, hastined to publish an unreserved apology to Ohakim and retracted the offensive publication.

In his apology letter written on his personal letterhead paper, dated June 23,2025, and published on page seven of “The Whitepaper” newspaper of Friday, July 4, 2025, Nzeh told the former governor that he regrets the embarrassment the reckless publication must have caused him. “Sir, I regret, however, or whatever embarrassment my actions might have caused you. This letter is a mark of my personal apologies and the great regards I have for Your Excellency,” Nzeh pleaded.

Nzeh, who is an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of English Language at Alvan Ikoku Federal federal University of Education, Owerri, appealed to Ohakim to note that his retraction of all the offensive comments in his libellous publication was humbly done. “Sir, I humbly retract such comments in my article titled ‘Taking Imo Backwards : The Ikedi Ohakim’s Comeback Call.’ I do this in appreciation that as a former governor and statesman, you deserve my unalloyed respect. I did not intend to violate this sacred role in any manner. Please, forgive me, ” Nzeh reiterated. He further pointed out that “my entire article, especially the offensive areas were not intended to malign, defame or cause Your Excellency private or public opprobrium in any way whatsoever,” and assured Ohakim of his respect at all times.

Reacting to this development, analysts described it as commendable and also a deterrant to hack writers, who might want to “easily cash out from politicians” as political activities pick up in Imo State.

Chief Ejike Madu described it as unfortunate and embarrassing. “How can a university lecturer stoop so low ? This retraction tends to question his credibility. But it’s better for him to apologize than face embarrassment in court.

Chibuzor Nwoke,a Development Communication expert, pointed out that “this was exactly what happened in 2011. They have started again.”

He advised writers and journalists to avoid sensationalism and write with facts. “You can not malign me in public and expect me to clap for you. Nzeh acted fast to save himself from legal traps, but it should be a lesson for him and others who may be planning to toe his line,” Nwoke stated.