The Leader of the Akwa Ibom All Progressives Congress 2023 Candidates’ Forum, Esime Eyibo, has refuted the claims that the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, Etekamba Umoren, belongs to the APC.
He challenged the accusers to provide proof of Umoren’s affiliation with the party, saying that the law is based on facts and context, not perception.
He made this statement at a press briefing in Abuja on Sunday, where he also praised the President Bola Tinubu-led administration for appointing many APC members from Akwa Ibom State to key federal positions.
“The law is not operated within the preview of perception but by facts and context. What does it take to be a member of a political party?
“You must be a card-carrying member, you must be of a financial standing. Beyond being a card-carrying member, your name must be on the register of members of that political party. There are a lot of Supreme Court judgements on this.
“The law also says whoever alleges must prove. Those who say he is a member of a political party, should go beyond playing to the gallery and bring out either his membership card or anything to show that he has been paying his dues as a member of the APC. The contract of proof is on those who are alleging that he is a party member.”
He said that the APC and the people of Akwa Ibom State are happy with these appointments, as they reflect the interest of the whole state, regardless of political differences.
