Esit Eket Leaders Demand Accountability for PIA Funds

Traditional rulers and stakeholders in Esit Eket, Akwa Ibom State, convened a meeting where they unanimously issued a seven-day ultimatum for the Esit Eket Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) Trust to publicly present its account of expenditures. The meeting, attended by various community leaders, was prompted by concerns over a lack of transparency and accountability regarding the management of PIA funds since 2021.

Paramount ruler Edidem Ubong Peter Assam II emphasized that the demand for accountability is not a witch hunt but a necessity to protect community resources. Former member of the National Assembly Hon. Esem Eyiboh expressed disappointment over the visible underdevelopment in Esit Eket despite significant financial inflows from the petroleum industry.

He condemned any insults directed at traditional rulers and insisted on accountability. The stakeholders warned that failure to comply would lead to legal action from anti-corruption agencies.

The communiqué from the meeting also highlighted the need for proper management of public funds and the return of any misappropriated resources.