Former Akwa-Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel
ANIEFIOK UDONQUAK, Uyo–
Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has debunked media reports suggesting that it has launched a probe into the tenure of former Governor Udom Emmanuel, describing such claims as false, misleading, and speculative.
In a press statement, issued Tuesday and signed by the Deputy Speaker, Kufre-Abasi Edidem, the House, clarified that no committee has been set up to investigate Mr. Emmanuel, contrary to some reports.
The statement explained that the only matter raised before the House on August 7, 2025, by Uwem Peter Imoh-Ita of Mkpat Enin State Constituency pertained to complaints over the non-payment of salaries to workers at the St. Gabriel’s Coconut Oil Factory.
The House noted that in keeping with its constitutional oversight mandate, considered it expedient to constitute an ad- hoc committee solely to verify the claims and ensure that workers’ welfare wasn’t toyed with in line with the spirit of accountability and good governance, not to probe the former governor.
“The publication is speculative, lacks a factual basis, and does not reflect any official position or resolution of the House,” the statement read in part.
Reaffirming the former governor’s contributions to the state’s development, the Assembly maintained that the administration of the immediate past governor was instrumental in laying the foundation for Akwa Ibom’s current industrial and economic progress, citing the success of Ibom Air as a legacy achievement.
The Deputy Speaker added that the Eighth Assembly holds the former governor and other past leaders of Akwa Ibom State in high regard, including the incumbent governor, Umo Eno.
The statement maintained that the House would not descend to on casting aspersions on serving and past leaders in the state.
He condemned the media report and others for politicising and weaponising a motion on the floor of the legislature for malicious narrative, and cautioned media organisations to exercise greater responsibility in their reportage and to verify claims through official legislative channels before publication.
“Inaccurate and sensational reporting not only misleads the public but also undermines the credibility of democratic institutions,” Edidem cautioned.
The statement also stressed that the House was committed to its oversight role, especially in safeguarding workers’ rights and ensuring transparency in state-owned enterprises while maintaining impartiality and respect for democratic values while advising the public to disregard the said publication in its entirety.
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