Akwa Ibom senator charged to court over assets declaration

The Federal Government has filed fresh criminal charges against Sen. Bassey Akpan, representing Akwa Ibom North East, at the Federal High Court, Abuja, over his failure to declare his assets.

In the court processes released on Wednesday, the government filed a two-count charge of criminal breach of trust, diversion of public funds, conspiracy and abuse of office against the senator.

The government said the offence was punishable under Section 15 of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act.

The charge sheet was signed by Mr Celsus Ukpong, Chief Superintendent, Special Presidential Investigation Panel (SPIP) on behalf of the Attorney-General of the Federation and backed by the proof of evidence and statement of Akpan.

Akpan, in his statement, attached to the charge sheet, said that he could not remember how much he bought his property on No. 387 Diplomatic Zone, Katampe Extension Abuja and who he bought the property from.

He also denied ownership of two other houses said to be his, all located around the diplomatic zone.

The two-count charge reads: “That you, Sen. Albert Akpan on or about 12th day of April, within the jurisdiction of this court committed an offence to wit: refusal to declare your assets without reasonable excuse.

“And upon notice to declare your assets before the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property, Abuja contrary to and punishable under Section 3(3)(1)(a) of the Recovery of Public Property (Special Provision)Act 2004.

“That you, Sen. Albert Akpan on or about 12th day of April, within the jurisdiction of this court committed an offence to wit: neglect to declare your assets without reasonable excuse.