The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has dismissed reports that it is investigating former Governor Udom Emmanuel, describing such claims as false and unfounded.
Deputy Speaker Kufreabasi Edidem stated this in a release issued in Uyo on Tuesday, August 12. He said the Assembly had not set up any committee to probe the former governor.
“The attention of the leadership and members of the Akwa Ibom Assembly has been drawn to a report in a newspaper publication of Monday, August 11, that the immediate past governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, is facing a probe by the House.
“The House wishes to state categorically that there is no scintilla of truth in the publication, in content and in intent, and gives clarifications to help properly inform the public as follows:
“That the publication is speculative, lacks factual basis, and does not reflect any official position or resolution of the House,” he said.
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Edidem explained that during plenary on Thursday, August 7, the member representing Mkpat Enin State Constituency, Uwem Imoh-Ita, raised a matter of urgent public importance concerning unpaid salaries of Coconut Plantation workers for seven months.
“As a norm in the House, an ad hoc committee has been constituted to investigate the issue raised and report back within one month. The committee has yet to submit its report to the House for consideration,” he added.
The Deputy Speaker urged the media to verify facts from official legislative sources before publishing.
“Inaccurate and sensational reporting not only misleads the public but also undermines the credibility of democratic institutions.
“Media professionals should thus know where to draw the line between facts and sensationalism. Journalism is a noble profession with its strong ethical bent,” Edidem said.