The All Progressives Congress, APC, Media Network has warned the Akwa Ibom State governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to stay out of the ongoing investigations of his predecessor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The former governor is being investigated over allegations of money laundering, diversion of funds, and stealing, brought against him by the Network Against Corruption and Trafficking, NACAT.
Pastor Eno, during the grand finale of a town hall meeting with the people of Abak Federal Constituency over the weekend, absolved his predecessor and political godfather, Udom Emmanuel, of any fraudulent activity.
The governor stressed that “the allegations of misappropriation of N700bn are not only false but totally unfounded.”
Resentful of the governor’s remarks, the APC Media Network, in a statement signed by its Director General, Otuekong Iniobong John, said the statement not only appears hasty but also preemptive, especially considering that the matter is currently under investigation by the anti-graft agency.
John insisted that the responsibility of declaring the former governor innocent rests solely with the EFCC, following a thorough and impartial completion of its investigation.
He added that the allegations surrounding Mr. Udom Emmanuel, whether substantiated or not, deserve full scrutiny by the appropriate authorities, as citizens deserve clarity and justice on the matter.
According to him, “Making such declarations prematurely undermines the integrity of the investigative process.
“It is vital for him to allow the EFCC the space necessary to conduct its work without interference or premature assertions of innocence. By doing so, he will demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability—values that are essential to restoring public trust in governance.”
The group, therefore, urged the governor to channel his energy toward fulfilling his mandate of good governance for the people of Akwa Ibom.
“Moreover, it is not the governor’s role to act as a protector of individuals who may have been implicated in wrongdoing, irrespective of their past or present relations.
“Rather, he should be prepared to hold individuals accountable when warranted and ensure that the interests of the citizens are prioritized. It is imperative that he leads with integrity and prepares to render a full account of his stewardship when the time comes.
“Moving forward, we urge Governor Umo Eno to uphold the values of transparency and allow the EFCC to carry out its crucial work without prejudice. Only through such actions can he reaffirm his commitment to the governance of our state and the welfare of its citizens,” the statement added.