PRESS STATEMENT

 

The Office of the Transition Committee Chairman of Udung Uko Local Government Area hereby addresses a false and malicious statement circulating on social media alleging that the Transition Committee Chairman of Udung Uko, Hon Godwin Okponung made a payment of thirty million naira to garner support for his political ambition.

In a Facebook publication titled, “HON. GODWIN OKPONUNG HAVE DISCLOSED TO THE YOUTH OF UBORO ISONG INYANG ( WARD 6) UDUNG UKO LGA THE REASON BEHIND HIS AMBITION TO RUN THE RACE OF THE CHAIRMANSHIP ELECTION IN UDUNG UKO LGA” made by a Faceless account named EMAN IYANAM, he said that the TC Chairman further said that though the zoning system does not favor his Ward he will not step down because he has paid for it.

We therefore condemn in totality, such malicious statements and advise the public to disregard such as it is totally mischievous and does not represent the personality of the chairman in any way. Such claims are baseless and seeks to tarnish Elder Okponung's reputation and also mislead members of the public.

We reaffirm our commitment to democratic principles, upholding the right of all eligible Aspirants to contest based on merit and the collective will of the people. Our campaign is built on integrity and adherence to ethical standards, and we will never engage in bribery or corruption.

The statement further falsely accuses Hon. Mrs. Kenim Onofiok (MP), HRM Odidem Bassey Etim Edet, and Chief Ikpoto Okon Osung as recipients of the alleged payments. This claim is defamatory and entirely false.

It is imperative to categorically state that, in accordance with the revised zoning system, the Udung Uko Chairmanship has been designated to Zone B, encompassing Ward 4, Ward 5, and Ward 6. Exception of ward 5 who just completed their tenure, all eligible aspirants from ward 4, and 6 who are yet to produce a democratically elected chairman in the history of the area are free to contest.

We urge the public to disregard these baseless claims and remain vigilant against the spread of misinformation. We will identify the individual behind the Facebook handle "Eman Iyanam" and take appropriate action to serve as a deterrent to those who resort to blackmail to inflame political tensions.

Elder Godwin Okponung remains committed to advancing the development of Udung Uko through his SHARE INITIATIVE. We appeal to all stakeholders to uphold the values of truth and integrity in our political discourse.

Thank you.

Media Unit

Office of the Transition Committee Chairman

Udung Uko Local Government Area