Akpanudoedehe’s Allegations False, Reckless, Says Akwa Ibom Govt
The Akwa Ibom State Government has dismissed allegations by Senator John James Akpanudoedehe that Governor Umo Eno caused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to seize the Lagos residence of former Governor Udom Emmanuel.
The government described the allegation as false, reckless and unsubstantiated, warning that attempts to incite the public or create tension in the state would not be tolerated.
The Commissioner for Information, Hon. Aniekan Umanah, stated this in a press release issued on Sunday in reaction to a social media video by Akpanudoedehe.
According to Umanah, Governor Eno has never reported anyone to the EFCC, including his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel.
“I make bold to say that I have never reported anyone, talk more of my predecessor in office, to the EFCC. I stand to be challenged or contradicted,” the Commissioner quoted Governor Eno as saying.
The government said Governor Eno had consistently demonstrated respect for his predecessors and pursued reconciliation and political harmony, including facilitating engagements at the highest levels of government.
It questioned why the governor would retain several officials who served under the previous administration and continue or complete projects initiated by former governors if he was motivated by political vendetta.
The government further accused Akpanudoedehe of attempting to reopen old political wounds, recalling the violence, destruction and arson associated with the build-up to the 2011 governorship election in the state.
Umanah said the crisis resulted in the burning of vehicles purchased for the mass taxi service and damage to public assets, adding that Akpanudoedehe was at the centre of the events and was subsequently arrested and prosecuted over allegations arising from the crisis.
The Commissioner warned that Akwa Ibom should not be subjected again to what he described as “the politics of bitterness, destruction and instability.”
He said the state government remained focused on implementing the ARISE Agenda of the Eno administration, including the development of roads and bridges, schools, healthcare facilities, agriculture, tourism, aviation and other sectors.
Umanah also cited the commissioning of 39 projects to mark the 39th anniversary of Akwa Ibom State as evidence of the administration’s focus on development.
While acknowledging the constitutional right of citizens to participate in politics and seek elective office, the government said such rights did not amount to a licence to spread falsehoods, incite passions or threaten the peace and security of the state.
The government therefore called on Akpanudoedehe and other political actors to exercise restraint and responsibility, assuring that it would continue to protect the peace and tranquillity of Akwa Ibom while pursuing its development agenda.
