Chairman of Uyo local government area of Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, has threatened decisive action against suspected fraudsters plotting to extort beneficiaries of the N100 million business intervention funds.
The chairman voted the fund for the empowerment of business owners of Uyo origin to cushion the effects of the harsh socioeconomic challenges facing the people in line with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda.
Addressing the suspects through Mr Ubong Udofia, the council secretary in Uyo, on Thursday, the chairman explained that the cash was a totally free facility drawn from the local government to aid his subjects.
“The chairman of Uyo LGA has drawn attention to the disturbing reports that some individuals are attempting to extort money from beneficiaries of the ongoing N100 million empowerment programme.
The chairman wishes to state categorically that the empowerment is 100 percent – free. No beneficiary is expected to remit any kobo/dime to any person or group under any guise.
“This initiative is designed to uplift and support businesses operated by indigenes of Uyo LGA, not to be hijacked by unscrupulous elements seeking personal gains.
“Accordingly, beneficiaries are advised to report any individual demanding remittance or making threats related to this empowerment programme to the office of the chairman without delay,” he warned.
