Ex-info Boss criticizes NACAT’s allegations against former Gov Udom Emmanuel
By Theresa Donatus, Uyo.
Comrade Ini Ememobong, former Commissioner for Information, Akwa Ibom State, has strongly rebuked the Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT) for their public accusations against ex-Governor Udom Emmanuel, claimed the group has conducted a “sustained vitriolic media trial” against him.
In a press release made available to newsmen in Uyo on Tuesday, Ememobong described the petition, which alleges misappropriation of funds, as “unfair” and “questionable.”
The petition, submitted to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), claims that Emmanuel used state funds to purchase a house in the United States during his tenure as Secretary to the State Government.
Following the submission, NACAT also took to social media and held a press conference in Abuja to further amplify the allegations. Ememobong, who was part of Emmanuel’s administration, expressed his concerns over the petitioners’ conduct.
He criticized them for seemingly reaching a verdict before seeking to understand the full facts, accusing them of portraying allegations as definitive judgments.
“The media trial purveys allegations that sound more like final court judgments,” Ememobong pointed out that the claims regarding a property purchase in the U.S. were baseless.
Ememobong clarified that from 2013 to 2014 when Emmanuel served as Secretary to the State Government, he did not receive any salary or allowance from the state government. He also emphasized that Emmanuel had no role in contract awards or financial dealings during that time.
The former commissioner went on to describe the petitioners’ approach as biased, asserting that their only goal seemed to be to see Emmanuel imprisoned, regardless of his innocence.
He noted that before his public service career, Emmanuel was already a wealthy individual, having worked at Zenith Bank, and was not reliant on government funds.
“These accusations ignore the wealth Mr. Udom Emmanuel had before coming into office,” Ememobong explained. “His financial background in the private sector should not be dismissed in these claims.”
Ememobong further mentioned that Emmanuel’s administration was highly transparent and publicly accountable, often engaging with citizens through live media appearances, such as the “Governor Speaks” program. He argued that genuine accountability must be pursued with an open mind rather than a predetermined judgment.
In his closing remarks, Ememobong questioned how NACAT would address the potential damage to Emmanuel’s reputation if he was exonerated. “If Mr. Udom Emmanuel is found innocent, how will you remedy the harm done to his person and reputation?” Ememobong asked.
The matter now awaits the EFCC’s investigation, with the public closely watching how it will unfold.
