A town agent in Kwania District has been arrested following serious accusations of demanding bribes from local residents. Geoffrey Ebong, who worked in Inomo Town Council, is alleged to have taken money from people hoping to be elected into leadership roles for the vital Parish Development Model (PDM) SACCOs. This arrest comes as a significant blow to public trust and the integrity of a program designed to uplift communities.
The PDM is a government initiative aimed at empowering ordinary citizens and fostering local development through community-led projects. For it to succeed, its leadership must be chosen fairly and transparently. However, complaints poured in from aspiring candidates who claimed Ebong was demanding between 20,000 and 50,000 shillings. He allegedly told them this money was necessary to help them participate in the election process for these important community positions.
These elections are for various committees within the PDM SACCOs, including those that manage loans, oversee projects, and make key decisions for community benefit. Such roles are crucial for the proper functioning and success of the PDM across Kwania.
Kwania’s Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Ceasor Obada, confirmed the arrest, stating that his office had received numerous complaints from both residents and local leaders. He swiftly directed the police to apprehend Ebong and launch an investigation into the allegations. One complainant, Odora George, who wished to run for General Secretary, specifically stated that the town agent demanded 30,000 shillings from him.
This alleged act of extortion not only betrays the trust of the community but also threatens to undermine the very foundation of the Parish Development Model. Authorities are committed to ensuring that these crucial community elections are fair and transparent, allowing genuine leaders to emerge and serve their people without the burden of corruption. The investigation is ongoing, aiming to bring justice and restore confidence in the development process.