A’Ibom denies involvement in EFCC’s seizure of ex-gov’s Lagos residence

The Akwa Ibom State Government has denied allegations that Governor Umo Eno was behind the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s seizure of a Lagos property allegedly belonging to former Governor Udom Emmanuel.

The government was reacting to a recent social media video by the African Democratic Congress governorship candidate, Senator John Akpanudoedehe, in which he accused the state governor of reporting the ex-governor to the EFCC over the alleged illegal acquisition of the property.

The State Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Uyo, the state capital, describing the claim as “false, reckless and without foundation” and saying it was aimed at inciting the public against the governor.

The statement read, “Ordinarily, the Government of Akwa Ibom would not dignify such a tissue of lies with a response. However, given the apparent intention to incite the public and create tension, we have chosen to set the record straight.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Governor Umo Eno has never reported anyone to the EFCC. I make bold to say that I have never reported anyone, let alone my predecessor in office, to the EFCC. I stand to be challenged or contradicted,” he added.

Umanah said Eno had consistently shown respect for his predecessors and worked towards reconciliation, including facilitating engagements at the highest levels of government in the interest of peace.

“If Governor Eno were driven by any form of fury, why has he retained most of the persons who served under the former administration? Why has he continued and completed projects initiated by former Governors?” he questioned.

The government urged Senator Akpanudoedehe and other political actors to desist from spreading falsehoods capable of causing disunity in the state.

“Akwa Ibom has moved far beyond the politics of falsehood, blackmail and manufactured controversies. Our people deserve politics that promotes peace, development and responsible leadership, not rhetoric designed to reopen old wounds or set leaders and communities against one another,” the statement added.

The government warned that it would protect the peace of the state and remain focused on governance.

“While Senator Akpanudoedehe is busy making unfounded allegations, the Government of Pastor Umo Eno remains focused on delivering the ARISE Agenda, roads and bridges, schools, healthcare facilities, Compassionate Homes, agriculture, tourism, aviation and other projects that are positively impacting the lives of our people,” he said.