Crisis Deepens in Ikono: Stakeholders Call for State of Emergency Amid Financial Scandal
Pressure is mounting on Governor Umo Eno to declare a state of emergency in Ikono Local Government Area following explosive allegations of financial misconduct against the Council Chairman, Hon. Otobong Essien.
Public outcry has intensified in the wake of a petition presented to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly by twelve councillors, accusing the Chairman of unauthorized withdrawals from council accounts, misappropriation of funds, and abuse of power.
The political storm has now taken a dramatic turn, with prominent Ikono stakeholder Godwin Udobot calling on Facebook for the Governor to step in immediately:
“The Governor should declare a state of emergency and appoint a sole administrator in Ikono LGA — money is missing.”
Another resident, Ubong Sampson Akpan, voiced concern about the potential fallout:
“I hope this petition will not lead to a state of emergency in Ikono?”
Multiple other stakeholders, speaking under condition of anonymity, echoed similar fears, warning that the ongoing crisis could escalate into violence or bloodshed if urgent intervention is not taken.
“The situation is volatile. The Governor must act now to prevent the breakdown of law and order,” one senior political insider told reporters.
The Allegations
The petition, officially presented by Hon. Aniefiok Attah during Tuesday’s plenary, was signed by the Leader of the 8th Ikono Legislative Council, Hon. Saviour Ebong, his deputy, Hon. Idorenyin Akpan, and ten other councillors.
They accuse Chairman Otobong Essien of:
* Withdrawing public funds without legislative approval,
* Misappropriating council resources in violation of Section 66(1) of the State’s Local Government Administration Law,
* Failing to attend legislative sessions,
* Employing security operatives to disrupt official functions of the legislative council.
The lawmakers described the Chairman’s conduct as “illegal, dishonourable, and grossly irresponsible,” stating she has “demonstrated unfitness to lead.”
Assembly’s Response
In response, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong, referred the petition to the House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, mandating the committee to meet with all key stakeholders — including the Chairman, Head of Service, and legislative leadership — and report back within three weeks.
What Next?
Sources within the Assembly say Chairman Otobong Essien may be sacked by next month, depending on the outcome of the committee’s findings. Her fate now lies in the hands of lawmakers, but the rising public pressure is putting the Governor in a tight spot.
Should the Governor declare a state of emergency, it would mark a rare and serious intervention — one that may reset local governance in Ikono but also spark broader political implications across the state.
