It Wasn’t Me! Pastor Denies Leading Umana To Justice Okoro

SAN FRANCISCO, October 20, (THEWILL) – Pastor Ebebe Ukpong has denied the allegation by Justice Inyang Okoko that he led the former governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress in Akwa Ibom State, Umana Umana, to his house to discuss issue of bribe.

Ukpong, in a statement released in Uyo vehemently indicated that he did not lead anybody to Justice Okoro nor attended any meeting in the Judge's house where the said issue, claimed by Justice Okoro, was discussed.

“I have read in the social media and several newspapers since the night of Tuesday, October 18, 2016, a letter purportedly written by Honourable Justice John I Okoro, JSC, and addressed to the Honourable Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman, National Judicial Council.

“In the said letter, Justice Okoro alleged that I led Mr. Umana Umana to visit with him in his residence without giving any details of such visit.

“Many reactions have followed. I'm constrained to make this statement for record purpose: I have known, in adult context, Hon. Justice Okoro for more than three decades now. He is my brother.

“I have never led anyone to Justice Okoro nor attended any meeting in his house where the issue of bribery, corruption of any kind or perversion of justice was discussed.

“Of course, I could never have and will never contemplate such as it is against my personal principles informed by my relationship with the Almighty God. I stand always for the truth, integrity and fairness.”

THEWILL recalls that Jusctice Okoro, one of the judges arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) over allegation of corruption had stated that Ukpong was a witness when he was being lured by Umana to influence his appeal at the Supreme Court.

“Umana also made the same request of assistance to win his appeal at the Supreme Court. Umana talked about 'seeing' the justices who would hear the appeal,” Okoro had stated.

“Pastor (Dr.) Ebebe Ukpong, who led Mr. Umana Umana to my house, intercepted and said that the issue of 'seeing' the justices was not part of their visit and that, as a pastor, he would not be part of such a discussion. Mr. Umana apologised.

“I advised them to go and pray about the matter and get a good lawyer. That was how they left my house.”

Story by Oputah David