From Fred Itua, Abuja
Immediate past Senate President, David Mark has threatened to sue media houses, which published reports linking him and his wife, victims to some off companies based in panama.
During the week, media reports indicated that Mark and his wife’s name were among prominent Nigerians whose secret assets and companies were stashed in Panama.
Speaking through his media aide, Paul Mumeh, Mark, who recently won a re-election, accused his detractors as those behind his ordeal. He said his lawyers were still studying the contents of the allegations in the media and will react soon.
“For the avoidance of doubt, in the released materials of the law firm, his name is not listed anywhere in the database. We reiterate categorically that he is not directly or indirectly connected to any of the companies registered, operated or managed by the Mossack Fonseca law firm. We challenge all those behind this propaganda and media outburst to prove or show that Senator Mark’s name was mentioned in the leaks. He is prepared to stand and defend himself against any accusation in relation to this matter.
“Senator Mark’s media team has carried out its own search of the Mossack Fonseca database and found no statement, item or any connection to Senator David Mark or his family. It follows that there is no record whatsoever of any impropriety or wrongdoing.
“We recall that in his quest for the Senate Presidency in 2007, there was an attempt to bring a similar issue to the fore in order to stop him. So, what are their fears now in 2016 for regurgitating the same issue?
“Once more, Senator Mark has distanced himself and any member of his family from the said Mossack Fonseca Firm and has no affiliation whatsoever with any company operated, registered or managed by Mossack Fonseca,” his aide said.
Speaking further, Mumeh said Mark has not contravened any Nigerian law and added that the claims were geared towards tarnishing his image.
“Senator Mark has not contravened any law of the land and he is treating this for what it is; an attempt to blackmail and tarnish his hard-earned image by some political elements.
“As a public officer, Senator Mark has maintained a high level of decorum, respect and observes the laws of the land and believes in the sanctity of the rule of law. He will not be distracted by what is clearly a deliberate mischief and propaganda.
“Records of all his assets are available with the relevant government agencies and can be verified. He has consulted his legal team and will take this up accordingly,” he added.