April 9, (THEWILL) – Following a defamation and cyberstalking petition filed last week by gospel artiste, Nathaniel Bassey, against four Facebook users, one of them, Kingsley Ibe, has apologised to the singer and fellow counterpart, Mercy Chinwo.
Ibe also turned himself into police custody.
He and three others alleged that Bassey fathered the son Mercy Chinwo, an allegation that went viral on X.
The three other social media users identified in the petition are Okoronkwo Ejike, Terrence Ekot, and Dj Spoiltkid.
Bassey’s legal representatives disclosed that “the police have taken his statement together with other incontrovertible evidence ready for prosecution over criminal defamation and cyber-related offences.”
They also said that the accused had shown remorse for his actions and was committed to redeeming himself.
”Mr. Ibe has shown true repentance for his actions and made a commitment to turn a new leaf and become a more responsible member of society. His aged mother and family members have also apologised on his behalf, and I have decided to extend a hand of fellowship and love towards him,” Bassey said through his legal representatives.
In an apology video made by Ibe, he stated he regretted his “reckless” statement, adding that he was not under duress to make the video.
“To you Pastor Nathaniel Bassey, I express my sincere apology to you for the comment I made on social media and to your family as well. I know the damage it has caused and I take full responsibility and I am deeply sorry from the bottom of my heart,” he said.
“To his fans and followers, to his ministry, the hallelujah challenge and the RCCG Oasis, I am also a fan of pastor Nathaniel Bassey for the past years and I did not make those comments with the intent to cause harm or evil and I am deeply deeply sorry.”
He also apologised to gospel singer Mercy Chinwo and her family, adding that his utterances might have far-reaching implications but were not with any form of malice.
“To minister Chinwo, I know I don’t deserve your mercy but I am deeply sorry and I ask you to forgive me. To the baby, I know my message was harsh and might cause a negative impact.”
Ivory Ukonu is a versatile journalist with many years of experience, with entertainment and society reporting as her area of core competence.
