CALABAR – The Cross River State Good Governance and Transparency Initiative (CRSGGTI) has issued a strongly worded statement condemning the actions of Mr Godwin Akpama, the Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu on Intelligence. The group accused Mr Akpama of gross misconduct, including blackmail, extortion, misuse of office, and undermining the principles of good governance in the state.
In the statement signed by Comrade Justine Asuquo (Coordinator), Comrade Ibor I. Ibor (Secretary), and Comrade Abang O. Abang (Publicity Secretary), the group expressed concerns that Mr Akpama has allegedly been acting beyond the boundaries of his office. They claim that his actions are characterised by arrogance and a lack of accountability, suggesting that he may not fully understand the responsibilities of his position.
The statement highlighted several key accusations against Mr Akpama, alleging that he:
- Uses his position to blackmail and extort political colleagues, public office holders, and private entities.
- Exploits his intelligence-gathering role for personal financial gain by soliciting bribes and fabricating reports.
- Engages in activities that create divisions and foster animosity among public officials and community stakeholders.
- Discloses confidential government documents to unauthorised individuals and uses such information to target perceived opponents.
The CRSGGTI specifically cited instances during the recent local government elections in Cross River State where Mr Akpama allegedly collected money from aspirants under the guise of writing favourable intelligence reports to the governor. These actions, they claim, were carried out without the knowledge or approval of Governor Bassey Otu.
Additionally, the group accused Mr Akpama of meddling in local and corporate affairs, citing his alleged involvement in the operations of Chinese companies in Okuni, Ikom Local Government Area. Community leaders have reportedly accused him of siding with the companies against the local community in exchange for monetary rewards.
A major point of contention raised in the statement is Mr Akpama’s alleged role in the Ugep generator controversy. The CRSGGTI claimed that Mr Akpama has taken a personal interest in the matter, bypassing his official role of providing intelligence to the governor. Instead, he is accused of leaking documents, blackmailing officials, and waging a media campaign against certain government appointees.
“Rather than investigate and report to his principal, Akpama has become an interested party… harassing and blackmailing top government officials connected with the generators matter,” the statement read. The group alleged that even after police investigations cleared the individuals involved, Mr Akpama persisted in his attempts to implicate them.
The CRSGGTI called on Mr Akpama to desist from using his position to further personal interests and to focus on advising the governor on pressing security issues. They urged him to adhere to the tenets of his office and maintain the confidentiality of intelligence reports.
The group warned that it would demand his removal from office if he continues to misuse his position. “We shall not hesitate to press for his removal if he continues to use his office to harass his fellow appointees or extort money from anybody,” the statement read.
The group also appealed to Governor Bassey Otu to intervene and ensure that Mr Akpama’s office operates in a manner that aligns with the principles of good governance. They emphasised the importance of integrity and professionalism in the office of the Special Adviser on Intelligence, particularly given its critical role in tackling the state’s security challenges.
The allegations against Mr Akpama have sparked mixed reactions within Cross River State. While some residents have expressed support for the CRSGGTI’s stance, others are calling for a thorough investigation into the claims.
Efforts to reach Mr Akpama for comments on the allegations were unsuccessful as of press time, however, Converseer gathered that the SA had earlier granted interview to the press, accusing several top government officials of misconduct.
This development adds to the growing debate about accountability among public officials in Cross River State, particularly under the administration of Governor Bassey Otu. Observers are keenly watching how the government will address these serious allegations, which could have far-reaching implications for governance in the state.
