Stakeholders from Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River state have raised concerns over the neutrality of a panel set up to investigate allegations surrounding the dissolved Cross River State Local Government Service Commission, CRSLGSB NEGROIDHAVEN can report
In an open letter addressed to Governor Bassey Otu, the stakeholders said recent developments have cast doubt on the impartiality of the investigative process, warning that any perceived compromise could erode public confidence in the ongoing probe.
The panel was constituted following the dissolution of the Cross River State Local Government Service Commission over allegations of abuse of office, job racketeering, and loss of public trust.
While commending the governor for dissolving the commission and initiating an investigation, The BeagleNews earlier reported that the stakeholders expressed concern over what they described as a potential conflict of interest involving a member and secretary of the investigative panel, Dr. Mrs. M. T. Ikwen.
According to the group, the panel secretary was allegedly seen publicly endorsing and praising a former member of the dissolved commission, Hon. Bridget Alina, during recent stakeholder engagements in the state.
The stakeholders argued that such conduct could undermine the credibility of the investigation, especially as Alina is reportedly under scrutiny over allegations relating to financial transactions involving job seekers through intermediaries under the pretext of employment facilitation.
They stressed that the integrity of the investigative process must be protected to ensure that its findings command public trust.
“The credibility of the panel is critical to restoring confidence in the system. Any perception of bias or prior alignment with individuals under investigation may weaken the legitimacy of the process,” the stakeholders stated.
The group further urged the state government and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress in the state to ensure that the panel operates with strict neutrality and independence.
They also called on the authorities to allow the panel to complete its work without interference and to ensure that its findings guide any administrative or political decisions involving individuals linked to the allegations.
The stakeholders maintained that safeguarding transparency in the investigation is necessary to reinforce the reform agenda of the state government and strengthen public confidence in governance.
Meanwhile, reacting to the concerns in a telephone interview, former commission member Hon. Bridget Alina dismissed the criticisms, insisting that she has not been found guilty of any wrongdoing by a court of law.
She maintained that during her time in the commission she was allocated employment slots which, according to her, were shared among critical stakeholders.
“I was in the commission and was given some slots for jobs. I shared the slots among critical stakeholders. I do not see what I did wrong there,” she said.
Alina also affirmed her intention to contest for the Obanliku State House of Assembly seat, describing herself as a committed member of the All Progressives Congress who is qualified to represent her constituency.
She added that the allegations against her should not be used to deny her the opportunity to seek elective office, reiterating that no competent court has convicted her of corruption or related offences.
