By Divine Sam
The Coalition of Ikono Youths Mandate has strongly dismissed what it described as “false, malicious, and politically motivated allegations” against Dr. Abasiono Okon, following a social media publication by one Mary Patrick Abang claiming she paid the sum of ₦280,000 to the politician for job placement.
In an official statement jointly signed by the International Coordinator of the group, Prince Ephraim Obot, and the International Secretary, Barr. Philip Umoh, the coalition described the allegation as a calculated attempt to tarnish the image and integrity of a man they said has built a reputation around philanthropy, youth empowerment, and community service.
According to the statement, at no point did Mary Patrick Abang or anyone acting on her behalf pay money into the personal account of Dr. Abasiono Okon for employment purposes.
The coalition clarified that although Dr. Okon knows the complainant personally, his involvement was merely to assist and guide her in the same humanitarian spirit with which he has supported numerous young people within and outside Ikono State Constituency over the years.
The group further explained that the job opportunity being referenced was never directly connected to Dr. Okon, adding that even a younger brother of the political figure was equally an applicant for the same opportunity.
“As part of the application process, applicants were reportedly required to provide Health, Safety and Environment (HSE 1, 2 & 3) certificates alongside recommendation letters from legal practitioners. Mary Patrick Abang was linked to individuals handling the processing of those documents, including a legal practitioner known to Dr. Okon. She personally communicated and negotiated with them and made payments directly into their respective accounts,” the statement read.
The coalition stressed that the processed documents were eventually delivered to her and maintained that no financial transaction was ever made into Dr. Abasiono Okon’s account.
The group also recalled that Mary Patrick Abang had previously benefited from the generosity of Dr. Okon during the early stages of her clothing business in Abuja, where he reportedly offered financial support and encouragement to help her grow.
“It is therefore unfortunate that someone who once benefited from his goodwill has now allowed herself to be used as an instrument of blackmail and character assassination,” the statement added.
The coalition alleged that the controversy was politically motivated and orchestrated by opposition elements unsettled by the growing popularity and grassroots support enjoyed by Dr. Abasiono Okon ahead of the 2027 Ikono State Constituency race.
They maintained that Dr. Okon’s contributions toward youth empowerment, support for widows, students, and struggling families across Ikono remain visible and impactful, insisting that no amount of propaganda can erase his track record of service.
The group urged members of the public to disregard what it termed sponsored falsehoods and remain focused on Dr. Okon’s vision for quality representation, empowerment opportunities, and sustainable development for the people of Ikono State Constituency.
The coalition further condemned what it described as desperate attempts by “politically irrelevant actors” to sow division and create disaffection against Dr. Okon within Ediene Itak Zone and the broader Ikono political family.
Reaffirming their loyalty and confidence in the politician, the coalition passed a vote of confidence on Dr. Abasiono Okon, praising his humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the less privileged.
“No amount of blackmail or sponsored propaganda can stop the growing acceptance of a man whose record of service continues to inspire hope among the people,” the statement concluded.
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