Cross River – Allegations of embezzlement and corrupt practices have emerged against the state’s Commissioner for Works, Ankpo Pius Edet, following claims made by prominent journalist and activist Agba Jalingo on social media NEGROIDHAVEN has confirmed.
On December 4, 2024, Jalingo took to his Facebook page, accusing the Commissioner of illicit financial activities while serving as the chairman of the State Infrastructure Task Force. In a post that has since gone viral, Jalingo alleged that Edet has been using multiple personal companies and proxies to siphon funds meant for the state government. The funds, Jalingo claims, were diverted through levies collected from defaulters that were supposed to go into government accounts but were instead paid into personal accounts controlled by Edet and his associates.
According to Jalingo, Edet opened a State Infrastructure Task Force account linked to his personal BVN, further consolidating his control over state funds. The activist also accused the Commissioner of exploiting his purported connections with the “first family” to evade scrutiny.
In a follow-up post, Jalingo criticized Governor Bassey Otu for appointing Edet to the key position in the first place, questioning his credibility and suitability for the role. He also expressed his satisfaction at Otu’s decision to dissolve the State Infrastructure Task Force, which was allegedly involved in the controversial practices.
Reacting to Jalingo’s allegations, social media users have expressed outrage, with many calling for a full investigation into the claims. Citizen Obhazi Ekponta commented, “This is criminal! This assumed ‘family ties’ in governance breeds profound corruption.” Meanwhile, Ogain Ekpenyong Ayib lamented, “Now stealing public funds is like an entitlement. Everybody wants to indulge. Make God just end this world make everybody rest.”
Support for Jalingo’s stance was also expressed by Eddy Agbor, who urged the public to expose corrupt politicians. “Cross River State will not spoil in our hands, let’s learn how to expose corrupt politicians. It’s our money they are stealing,” Agbor stated.
Nsisong Mbong, another commenter, took a more somber approach, lamenting that many youths in Cross River State, who are clamoring for political inclusiveness, are the very same individuals indulging in corrupt practices. “What have you learned from the old guys along the corridors of power? Is it embezzlement you’ve learned from them, or a prudent and accountable approach to spending?” Mbong questioned.
The allegations against Commissioner Edet come at a time when concerns over corruption and accountability are at the forefront of public discourse in Cross River State. While Governor Otu’s dissolution of the State Infrastructure Task Force is seen as a step toward addressing these concerns, many citizens are calling for a thorough investigation and legal action to ensure that justice is served.
As the situation unfolds, the people of Cross River State remain hopeful that the rule of law will prevail, and that the state’s resources will be safeguarded for the benefit of all.
