The All Progressives Congress Media Network in Akwa Ibom State has urged Governor Umo Eno to refrain from interfering in the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s investigation into the alleged misappropriation of N700bn by former Governor Udom Emmanuel.
Eno, while addressing a town hall meeting in Abak Local Government Area, dismissed as false and baseless the claims that his predecessor had a case to answer before the anti-graft agency.
He described the allegations of misappropriation as unfounded and insisted that such figures were not known to his administration.
“When a man has served his state meritoriously as Deacon Udom Emmanuel did, he should be honoured and respected. I don’t see a place for this kind of information that is going around. It’s not correct.
“I don’t believe it should continue. I don’t know where they get these figures from, but as the sitting governor, I can tell you it is not true. This media trial must stop,” Eno said.
However, in a statement issued in Uyo on Monday, the Director General of the APC Media Network, Iniobong John, described the governor’s remarks as hasty and preemptive, arguing that the EFCC should be allowed to complete its investigation without interference.
“The allegations surrounding Mr. Udom Emmanuel, whether substantiated or not, deserve the full scrutiny of the appropriate authorities. The people of Akwa Ibom deserve clarity and justice—both of which could be compromised by premature conclusions.
“The governor’s statement, dismissing the allegations as unfounded, appears both hasty and preemptive, especially since the EFCC is still investigating the matter.
“The responsibility of declaring the former governor innocent lies solely with the EFCC after a thorough and impartial investigation. Making such declarations prematurely undermines the credibility of the investigative process.
“We encourage Governor Eno to focus on delivering good governance rather than interfering in an ongoing investigation. He must allow the EFCC the space to do its job without interference or premature assertions of innocence. By doing so, he will demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability, which are critical to restoring public trust in governance.
“It is not the governor’s role to shield individuals who may have been implicated in wrongdoing, regardless of their past or present ties. Instead, he should be prepared to hold individuals accountable where necessary and prioritise the interests of the citizens. It is imperative that he leads with integrity and prepares to account for his own stewardship when the time comes,” the statement read in part.
