Financial Impropriety, Abuse Of Power: AKHA Receives Petition Against Ikono Chairman

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly today during Plenary received a petition against the Council Chairman of Ikono, Hon. Otobong Essien, where the Councillors have accused her of misconduct in the discharge of her official duties.

This was contained in a petition presented before the Assembly by the Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, Justice, Human Rights, and Public Petitions, Hon. Aniefiok Attah.

The petition, signed by Hon. Saviour Ebong, Leader of the 8th Ikono Legislative Council, Deputy Leader Hon. Idorenyin Akpan, and ten other councillors, accused the Council Chairman of unlawfully withdrawing public funds from the local government council's account without the necessary authorisation from the Legislative Council.

The councillors described her actions as dishonorable, illegal, and a blatant abuse of power.

Additionally, the councillors alleged that the Chairman misappropriated council funds in violation of Section 66(1) of the Local Government Administration Law of the State, failed to attend legislative sessions, and employed security personnel to disrupt the official activities of the legislators.

They stated, "The overall conduct of the Chairman reflects her unwillingness and unpreparedness to govern as the Executive Chairman of Ikono Local Government Council in accordance with the law," emphasising that her careless attitude and misconduct must be addressed immediately.

The petition was received for further deliberation through a motion by Hon. Kenim Onofiok, representing Oron/Udung Uko state constituency, and was seconded by Hon. Selina Ukpatu of Ikot Abasi/Eastern Obolo state constituency.

The Speaker Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong in his ruling referred the petition to the House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and directed the Committee to engage with the Council Chairman, Head of Service, Leader of the Legislative Arm, and other relevant stakeholders regarding the issue.

Speaker Otong also directed the committee to report back to the House within three weeks.

The House has adjourned plenary until Thursday, May 15, 2025.

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