Allegations Trail Political Bigwigs Over Sale of Generators in Ugep

By Our Reporter

Overview: The Allegations and Their Origin

A storm of allegations involving fraud, conspiracy, and abuse of power has erupted in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area (LGA) of Cross River State. At the heart of the controversy is the sale of two unserviceable Matrac Caterpillar Generators, initially donated to the Ugep Community by former Governor Ben Ayade for street lighting during the Leboku International Festival. The dispute pits community leaders, buyers, and state authorities against each other, with the police and courts now intervening.

According to documents cited by our reporter, Adfoldam Nigeria Enterprise Ltd., represented by its principal Mr Ade Adetunji Adelani, claims that the purchase of the generators was above board, yet the transaction became embroiled in conflicting claims of ownership, vandalism, and extortion. Letters, petitions, and police reports now paint a tangled narrative of intrigue, bribery, and threats.

Key Timeline of Events

1. November 2023 – Initial Purchase

Mr Ade Adetunji Adelani reportedly purchased the two generators from Ugep Community representatives. The terms included payment and a commitment to provide 200 poles and street lights for the community.

2. Vandalism and Community Concerns

Prior to the sale, the generators had been reportedly vandalised by unknown persons. According to the Community Chiefs and Paramount Ruler, this rendered them unserviceable for their intended purpose.

3. March–April 2023 – Cross River Scrap Agency Steps In

The Cross River State Scrap Regulatory Agency wrote to the community, addressing the fate of the generators. This led to formal letters from the Paramount Ruler HRH Obol (Dr) Ofem Ubana Eteng XVI and nine (9) other Clan Heads outlining conditions for disposal.

4. January 2024 – Police Involvement and Arrests

Tensions escalated when Mr Ade’s team attempted to transport the generators. The police intervened, allegedly on the orders of a prominent figure identified as Hon. Cyril James Omini representing Yakurr I State Constituency at the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly, CRSHA. Reports suggest that police arrests and harassment occurred under suspicious circumstances.

5. February–September 2024 – Court Cases and Conflicting Claims

Amid petitions and counter-petitions, conflicting parties escalated their grievances. Police investigations led to questions about the role of state authorities, particularly involving the State Commissioner of Power, Eka Williams, and a consulting firm, Peterson Group.

6. Current Status

The generators remain detained, with accusations of bribery, forgery, and illegal diversion under investigation. A pending court order seeks clarification on ownership and legality.

The Matrac Caterpillar Generators

Stakeholders and Claims

1. Adfoldam Nigeria Enterprise Ltd. (Buyer)

• Claims a legitimate transaction was conducted.
• Alleges harassment and obstruction despite fulfilling payment terms.
• Key evidence: Receipts, agreements, and petitions to relevant authorities.

2. Ugep Community Representatives:

• Argue that the generators were community property and were sold under duress.
• Highlight vandalisation as the trigger for sale discussions.
• Claim fraudulent intermediaries hijacked the process.

3. Hon. Cyril Omini

• Accused of extorting funds and obstructing transportation of the generators.
• Allegedly received ₦15 million and ₦4 million to “smoothen” transactions but later turned hostile.

4. Peterson Group (Consultant)

• Reported as an intermediary with questionable involvement.
• Accused of seizing control of the generators under unclear directives.

5. State Authorities

• The Cross River State Commissioner for Power is linked to the approval letters cited.
• Allegations suggest approvals were backdated or issued without gubernatorial consent.

6. Law Enforcement (Police)

• Criticised for biased handling of the case.
• Accused of receiving bribes and detaining individuals unjustly.
• Zone Six Command reportedly diverted the generators for investigations.

Supporting Evidence and Attachments

1. Official Letters and Dates

• Letters dated 28th March 2023 and 5th April 2023 from community leaders outline conditions for disposing of the generators.
• Approval letters from the Commissioner of Power are under scrutiny for potential forgery.

2. Police and Court Reports

• Petitions to police highlight harassment and illegal detentions.
• Court documents focus on the seizure and diversion of the generators.

3. Financial Transactions

• Allegations of ₦4 million and ₦15 million exchanged between parties.
• Claims of fund misappropriation and bribery remain central to investigations.

Community Outrage and Reactions

The Ugep Community has expressed anger over the perceived mishandling of the situation. Many blame external influences for sowing discord and undermining community interests. A local leader, speaking anonymously, said: “These generators were a gift for our development. Now they have become a tool for exploitation, and our community is suffering for it.”

Residents demand transparency and an independent investigation to unravel the truth.

Editorial Note: This report is a developing story. See supporting documents below: