A social-political group, Coalition Of Democrats (CODE), dedicated to promoting good governance and accountability, has raised red flags over the hijacking of the Akwa Ibom State Government's Arise Empowerment programs by stakeholders in some Local Government Areas, particularly in Ukanafun, Ibiono Ibom and Essien Udim.
The group expressed deep dissatisfaction that the program, designed to empower grassroots communities, especially farmers, artisans, and small-scale business owners, has been compromised by the inclusion of
influential individuals on the beneficiaries list. This development they say has undermined the program's integrity and denied genuine beneficiaries the support meant for them.
Speaking with newsmen in Uyo on Friday , Dr. Usoro Akpanusoh, Secretary of CODE, commended the executive governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, for initiating the life-touching program aimed at improving the lives of people at the grassroots.
Dr. Akpanusoh, however expressed disappointment over the hijacking of the program by stakeholders, describing it as a betrayal of the government's commitment to the people.
According to CODE, some stakeholders in certain LGAs have manipulated the selection process, listing former lawmakers, party loyalists, and their family members as beneficiaries, thereby denying genuine farmers and small-scale business owners the benefits meant for them.
The group further described this action as self-enrichment and manipulation of public welfare schemes, which is sending a disturbing signal of exploitation to the public.
In a strong terms, CODE also passed a vote of no confidence on the stakeholders whose names were found on the beneficiaries list, calling on them to resign from government appointments and tender unreserved apologies to the state Governor, Pastor Umo Eno and the entire state in order to save their face .
"Their actions have shown that they are not fit to serve the public interest, we urge them to do the honorable thing and step down, as their continued presence in government will only perpetuate corruption and undermine public trust".
CODE further called on the state government to investigate and rectify the situation by taking immediate action to address the issue and ensure the program's success.
"We urge the state government to set up a committee to oversee the program and ensure that benefits reach the intended beneficiaries," Dr. Akpanusoh emphasized.
The group further reiterated its commitment to continue monitoring the program's implementation to ensure transparency and accountability, underscoring its dedication to promoting good governance in Akwa Ibom State.
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