▪ Allegations laughable, says Gov’s spokesman
A human rights organisation known as Network Against Corruption and Trafficking, on Tuesday, urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to investigate Cross River State governor, Prof Ben Ayade, for alleged financial impropriety and money laundering.
The organisation cited an audit report of the State treasury between 2015 and 2020, which, it said, allegedly exposed how Ayade squandered State resources while serving as governor.
Details of the report claimed that Ayade allegedly diverted funds meant for infrastructure development, workers’ welfare, and other critical sectors to personal use.
But Ayade’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Ita, dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated.
He accused NACAT of being a tool in the hands of opposition politicians, who are desperate to tarnish the governor’s image.
“Please, before I respond, kindly do us a favour, and calculate how much allocations have come to the State in eight years. They’re published by the Federal government. The State hasn’t earned that kind of money in eight years. So, from where did he see N500 billion to steal?” Ita asked.
The spokesperson for NACAT, Iteveh Ekpokpobe, however claimed that the audit report showed that Ayade’s administration mismanaged over N500 billion ($1.2 billion) during his first tenure as governor.
He also alleged that the governor engaged in money laundering activities, using his personal businesses – Leophina Works Limited and Hally Brown International Limited – to siphon State funds.
“We are calling on the EFCC and ICPC to immediately commence an investigation into Governor Ayade’s activities while in office.
“The audit report clearly shows that he misused state resources and engaged in financial crimes. We believe that he must be held accountable for his actions and made to face the full wrath of the law,” Ekpokpobe said.
NACAT also submitted a petition to the EFCC and ICPC, calling for a thorough investigation into Ayade’s financial dealings.
The organisation urged the anti-corruption agencies to act swiftly and ensure that justice is served.
– Media Report