By Prisca Nguzo
Brothers Across Nigeria International, BAN, a non-governmental organisation has refuted a viral media report linking them as a cult group.
The said report followed the recent renovation of New Owerri Police Division, Owerri, Imo State which was chiefly facilitated cum sponsored by the organisation.
The writer in the report had alleged that the organisation is a cult group, and should not have been connected to police affairs or activities.
But the Imo State chapter Chairman, Chukwuemeka Nwokeji, in a release availed to newsmen, described the report as baseless and a malicious attempt by the writer to tarnish the reputation of the organisation.
Nwokeji said the renovation of the police division was one of the Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR projects of the organisation aimed at enhancing the working conditions and service delivery of the police personnel.
The release partly reads, “It has come to our attention that certain faceless bloggers have been spreading false and misleading information about Brothers Across Nigeria International, falsely labeling our association as a cult group.
“We categorically refute these baseless allegations aimed at tarnishing the reputation of our esteemed organization and its well-meaning members.
“For clarity, Brothers Across Nigeria International is a duly registered association with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) of Nigeria under RC No:138723. Also, Brothers Across Nigeria, by which we are also known and which remains an active entity and going concern, is likewise registered with the CAC under RC No:1454.
Nwokeji continued, “In line with our “statement of objectives” at registration (which is requisite for investigation and consequent registration of associations such as ours), our Imo State chapter demonstrated its commitment to community development by undertaking a corporate social responsibility (CSR) project.
“This initiative involved the building of a female cell and renovation of key sections of a strategic police division within the metropolis, aimed at improving its infrastructure and enhancing the working conditions for law enforcement officers. This noble initiative deserves recognition and appreciation, not misrepresentation by detractors with mischievous intents.
“This project is just one of the many charitable and developmental activities we have undertaken to improve communities across Nigeria and internationally. We have engaged in scholarships, medical outreaches, skill acquisition programs, and other humanitarian projects that uplift lives.”
“We strongly advise the general public to disregard any false publications aimed at tarnishing the image of well-meaning Nigerians and organizations dedicated to service and societal progress. We remain committed to our vision and will not be deterred by unfounded rumors.” he added.
