The Chairman of Biase Local Government Area, Mr. Edodi Eyong, has reportedly relieved two of his aides of their duties for allegedly accepting Christmas gifts from the member representing Akamkpa/Biase Federal Constituency, Dr. Emil Inyang.
Dr. Inyang, a native of Biase, previously served two terms as Chairman of the local government before his election to the House of Representatives in 2023.
The affected aides are said to be Mr. Charles Uno Ukam, Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, and Mr. Cornell Edadi Obin, Protocol Officer to the Vice Chairman.
Sources within the council suggest that the action may not be unconnected to the strained political relationship between Chairman Eyong and Rep. Inyang. It was gathered that Eyong is allegedly opposed to Inyang’s potential re-election bid in 2027. There are also claims that the Chairman has not forgiven the lawmaker for reportedly failing to support his emergence as Council Chairman.
Another source alleged that the Chairman is working closely with certain political stakeholders to frustrate Inyang’s second-term ambition.
The situation has reportedly created tension and political friction between both camps, with claims of an unofficial directive discouraging aides from visiting or receiving gifts from the federal lawmaker.
The recent courtesy visit by the two aides to Rep. Inyang, during which they allegedly received Christmas largesse, was reportedly viewed by the Council Chairman as an act of disloyalty and defiance. This is despite reports that members of the Forum of Councilors also visited the lawmaker and received similar gifts.
Reacting to the development, a political leader who spoke on condition of anonymity described the situation as unhealthy for the political climate in Biase.
“What is happening in Biase is unfortunate and not good for our democracy. How can aides be sanctioned for visiting their elected representative or receiving gifts? Power is transient, and politics should not be driven by vendetta,” the source said.
The unfolding events have sparked conversations within the local political space, with observers calling for dialogue and unity to prevent further escalation.
Source: The beagleNews
