MP for Weija-Gbawe criticises AG for using media to address legal cases

The Second Deputy Minority Whip, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, has criticized Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine. He believes Dr. Ayine is using the media to address legal issues. This approach bypasses the proper judicial process.

Mr. Shaib's comments came after a media briefing by Dr. Ayine. The briefing discussed ongoing investigations into government anti-corruption efforts and "Operation Recover All Loot." Mr. Shaib is concerned about handling these cases publicly instead of through formal legal channels.

On JoyNews' The Pulse Show, Mr. Shaib questioned the Attorney General's media strategy. He asked why Dr. Ayine would go to the media instead of court. “If you have reasons to prosecute someone, why use the media?” he said.

He pointed out that the media does not allow accused individuals to respond fairly. Mr. Shaib emphasized that criminal accusations should be handled in court, where defendants can defend themselves.

“If you have evidence against someone, go to court,” he explained. “Present your evidence there, and let judges decide.” He expressed disappointment with what he sees as a political approach rather than a pursuit of justice.

“What you are doing is not justice; it’s political crucifixion,” Mr. Shaib remarked. He criticized using the media instead of courts for legal matters.

Mr. Shaib also raised concerns about possible political motivations behind Dr. Ayine's actions. He suggested they might mimic tactics used by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

“Is the Attorney General now following suit?” he asked rhetorically about press crucifixion tactics.

He concluded by stressing that legal matters should follow proper judicial processes for fair trials and presumption of innocence. Public trials in the media could unfairly damage reputations without due process.