Governor Eno Condemns Media Trial of Ex-Governor Udom Emmanuel Amid EFCC Probe
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has called for an immediate cessation of the media trial concerning the recent interrogation of former Governor Udom Emmanuel by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Addressing constituents during a Town Hall meeting at Abak Township Stadium, Governor Eno dismissed allegations of a ₦700 billion misappropriation linked to his predecessor, labeling such figures as unfounded and not recognized by the current administration.
Governor Eno expressed concern over attempts to tarnish the reputation of leaders who have dedicated themselves to public service, warning that such actions could discourage others from serving. He emphasized that individuals who have served the state meritoriously, like Deacon Udom Emmanuel, deserve honor and respect. The governor questioned the basis of the circulating information, asserting that, as the sitting governor, he can confirm the allegations are untrue. He called for an immediate end to the media trial and urged the public to dismiss these baseless claims outright.
Former Governor Udom Emmanuel was at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday evening to honor an invitation following petitions against him by the Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT). His media aide, Stephen Abia, refuted claims of an arrest, clarifying that Emmanuel’s visit was a routine engagement and not an indictment. Abia criticized media reports framing the invitation as an arrest, arguing that such narratives were being pushed by political opponents. He emphasized that an invitation is not a conviction and urged the public to differentiate between responding to an invitation and being arrested.
The issue of media trials has been a growing concern among political figures in the region. In February, former Minister of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, Chief Nduese Essien, criticized sensational media trials allegedly orchestrated by self-proclaimed anti-corruption crusaders aimed at extorting former South-South governors.
Essien expressed concern over what he described as an elaborate scheme by Mr. Fejiro Oliver, Executive Director of Investigations at NACAT, to target high-profile politicians, including former Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel. He accused Oliver of using the media to manipulate public opinion and launch unfounded accusations without tangible evidence. Essien emphasized the need for fairness and objectivity in the fight against corruption, rejecting ethnic sentiments creeping into the discourse.
Similarly, the immediate past Commissioner for Information in Akwa Ibom State, Comrade Ini Ememobong, warned petitioners against subjecting former Governor Udom Emmanuel to a sustained vitriolic media trial. He criticized the petitioners for making allegations that sounded more like final court judgments, accusing Emmanuel of purchasing a house in America with funds from the Akwa Ibom State Government while serving as Secretary to the State Government.
Ememobong noted that during his tenure as Secretary to the State Government, Emmanuel did not receive a salary or any allowance from the state government and was not in charge of contract awards or any other money-yielding government enterprise. He cautioned that a sincere demand for accountability must be done with an open mind rather than a judgmental mindset, warning that deep anger in the prosecution of any matter could turn to persecution.
Governor Eno’s recent statements underscore the need for due process and caution against the dangers of media trials, which can undermine the principles of justice and fairness. He urged citizens and officials to uphold peace and unity in the state, calling for continuous efforts to foster harmony. The governor encouraged officials to carry out their duties with decorum, avoiding actions that might disrupt the state’s peace and unity.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders emphasize the importance of adhering to due process and avoiding media sensationalism that could prejudice public perception and undermine the integrity of individuals involved. The call for an end to media trials resonates with a broader appeal for responsible journalism and objective reporting in matters of public interest.