A former Minister of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, Chief Nduese Essien, has condemned what he described as orchestrated media trials aimed at extorting former governors from Nigeria’s South-South region.
Speaking to journalists at his Eket residence on Sunday, Essien accused Fejiro Oliver, the Executive Director of Investigations at the Network Against Corruption and Trafficking, of manipulating public opinion through baseless allegations against prominent politicians, including former Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel.
Essien criticised Oliver’s methods, alleging that he fabricates claims without evidence to pressure individuals into compliance.
“I have observed with keen interest the tradition of sensational media trials, where crusaders embark on campaigns designed to extort unsuspecting persons,” Essien stated. “Mr. Fejiro Oliver, operating from the U.S. but conveniently setting up an African office in Uyo, has turned Akwa Ibom into his latest target after testing the waters with former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.”
According to Essien, Oliver’s strategy involves making vague accusations first and then seeking evidence later to support his claims.
“When the allegations first emerged, there was no tangible evidence against Udom Emmanuel,” he continued. “Oliver merely resorted to a media trial, hoping that certain individuals would supply him with enough material to fabricate a petition.”
Essien also dismissed what he called an “absurd” attempt to link Senate President Godswill Akpabio to corruption allegations, stressing that Akpabio is too occupied with national responsibilities to be dragged into such controversies.
“It is laughable to suggest that Akpabio has the time or inclination to entertain a media-driven witch hunt,” Essien said. “He has already faced scrutiny from anti-graft agencies and should be left out of this circus.”
The former minister called for fairness in the fight against corruption, warning against ethnic bias creeping into accountability discussions.
“Corruption and accountability transcend ethnic affiliations. Whether one hails from Uyo, Ikot Ekpene, or Eket, the law remains the law,” he stated.
He commended the administration of Governor Umo Eno for maintaining peace and inclusivity in Akwa Ibom State, urging stakeholders to support efforts towards growth and stability.
“Akwa Ibom has enjoyed peace and inclusive governance since May 2023. The days of fierce disagreements between successive administrations are gone,” he said.
Essien warned against using anti-corruption campaigns as a tool for blackmail, emphasizing that due process should be followed.
“Public officials are subject to scrutiny by agencies like the EFCC and ICPC. If there are legitimate grounds for prosecution, due process should take its course. Until then, let us refrain from fueling baseless media trials for sensationalism,” he asserted.
It will be recalled that NACAT had petitioned the EFCC and ICPC in January, demanding an investigation into Udom Emmanuel over alleged corruption and mismanagement of public funds.
