Public office holders who are contesting the forthcoming local government election in Cross River State are demanded to declare their assets.
This was revealed in a press release signed by Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, Secretary to the State Government, on Thursday, 10th October.
According to the release, the declaration of assets aim to promote transparency and accountability as well as prevent corruption and conflict of interest.
It also warned that those who fail to declare their assets or falsify their declaration shall be punished according to the law.
“In accordance with provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), the Cross River State Government hereby reminds all Civil/Public officeholders contesting elections to declare their assets.
“The assets declaration aims to promote transparency and accountability, prevent corruption and conflict of interest, as well as ensure public trust in elected officials.
“Public Officers who fail to declare their assets will face disqualification from contesting elections and even prosecution in the event of false declaration.
“Consequent upon this, all Public Officers who resigned their appointments, with the intent of running for elective offices in the forthcoming Local Government Election are advised to comply with relevant provisions of the Law, by ensuring the declaration of their assets, at the office of the Code of Conduct Bureau, Federal Secretariat Complex, Calabar, without fail.
“Officers contesting the election are also to resign at least 30 days before the election, in line with Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act (2022 as amended)
“The Government enjoins all concerned to ensure strict compliance,” the release read.