Perekeme Tenders Public Apology to Azikel Group CEO Over Scholarship Publication
By Jonah Fubara, YENAGOA – Social commentator and public affairs advocate, Dr. Perekeme Fidelis Perekeme Jr., has issued an open letter to the Chief Executive Officer of Azikel Group of Companies, Dr. Eruani Azibapu, expressing regret over his decision to share a Facebook publication alleging irregularities in the company’s aviation scholarship programme.
In the letter, Dr. Perekeme explained that the publication, titled “Alleged Aviation Scholarship Scam: Second Successful Candidate Sues Dr. Eruani Azibapu and Azikel Group for ₦1.9 Billion,” was not authored by him but by Mr. Ebilate Amabebe, who identified himself as one of the aggrieved parties in the dispute.
According to him, his decision to share the post was not intended to malign the reputation of Dr. Eruani or Azikel Group but to draw public attention to concerns that had already entered the public domain and to encourage dialogue and clarification from all parties involved.
He further disclosed that before sharing the disputed publication, he had independently published another article titled “A Call for Clarity, Fairness and Justice,” in which he appealed to Dr. Eruani to clarify the allegations raised by some concerned youths. He also urged members of the public to avoid making premature judgments while awaiting official responses.
Dr. Perekeme noted that the appeal received a prompt response from Dr. Eruani’s Special Assistant and spokesperson, Mr. Austin Ebibade, describing it as evidence that constructive engagement was possible.
Emphasising that he never referred to Dr. Eruani as a scammer nor intended to defame his character, the public affairs advocate maintained that his actions were guided by a desire to promote fairness, transparency and peaceful resolution of the issues raised.
He acknowledged the contributions of Dr. Eruani to society and described the young men involved in the dispute as members of the same community who deserve a fair hearing and amicable resolution.
Recognising that the matter is now before a court of competent jurisdiction, Dr. Perekeme offered what he described as a “sincere and unreserved apology” to Dr. Eruani Azibapu for sharing the publication, expressing regret for any misunderstanding, inconvenience or distress his actions may have caused.
He concluded the open letter by praying for peace, understanding and justice to prevail for all parties involved, reaffirming his commitment to good governance, responsible public engagement and peaceful coexistence.
