Anosike Dispute: Shoon Calls for Fair Hearing, Rule of Law

By Raphael Atuu, Abuja

The Managing Director of D.I. Gear Limited, Ambassador Emmanuel Shoon Patrick, has called for fairness, due process and respect for the rule of law in the ongoing dispute involving Fidelis Anosike and some media organisations over publications allegedly affecting his reputation.

Shoon, in a statement made available to journalists, emphasised the need for disputes involving individuals and organisations to be resolved through proper investigation and judicial determination rather than public accusations and premature conclusions.

He maintained that all parties involved in the dispute should be given a fair hearing, stressing that allegations must be established through credible evidence and appropriate legal procedures.

A letter dated March 24, 2026, from the Directorate of Legal Services of the Nigeria Police Force indicated that Anosike had been invited for an interview in connection with an investigation into a petition bordering on alleged criminal defamation, communal intimidation and cyberstalking.

The letter, signed by CP Aremu Bamidele Silas, Deputy Director (Administration), directed Anosike to appear on March 30, 2026, at 11 a.m.

However, the invitation letter did not state the outcome of the investigation, and the invitation itself does not establish any wrongdoing on the part of the person invited.

Shoon also raised concerns over a publication alleging that he was tracked and arrested in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, describing the report as false.
According to him, he had drawn the attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to the publication but expressed dissatisfaction with what he described as the commission’s failure to address the matter.

Shoon said he remained confident in the judiciary and expected the issues arising from the dispute to be resolved in accordance with the law.

He stressed that the courts remained the appropriate avenue for determining contested claims and ensuring that the rights of all parties were protected.

Shoon also urged media organisations to uphold professional standards by verifying information and seeking clarification from relevant parties before publishing reports that could affect the reputation of individuals and businesses.

He noted that responsible journalism requires accuracy, fairness and balance, particularly when reporting on allegations that have not been conclusively determined by a court of law.

The businessman further disclosed that he was involved in court proceedings against Anosike and some media organisations over publications concerning him and one of his companies.

He said he expected the legal process to provide an opportunity for the issues in contention to be examined and resolved on their merits.

Shoon urged members of the public to exercise restraint and avoid prejudging the matter while the legal process continued.

He reiterated that respect for due process, the right to a fair hearing and the independence of the judiciary remained essential to resolving disputes and maintaining public confidence in the administration of justice.