Embattled Abia state Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu declared yesterday that democracy was on trial in Abia state.
This is coming at the heels of his sacking by a federal high court over allegations of tax evasion and the attempted swearing in of his rival, Dr Sampson Uche Ogah. Ikpeazu declared that he was ready to fight the ruling of Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court, Abuja all the way to the supreme court if necessary.
Ikpeazu while briefing newsmen yesterday stressed that he was still governor of Abia state and the illegality of his alleged removal will not stand. He said, “I am still the governor of Abia, so, I appeal to our people to remain calm until the final verdict of the Supreme Court. This illegality will not stand. I will test the judgment in the Appeal Court up to the Supreme Court.
“Even if it was a death sentence, I don’t think that I will be executed without right of appeal.
“That right is fundamental, that right is undeniable and a denial of that right is a denial of my fundamental right. There is no doubt over who is in charge or who the governor of Abia State is because you people witnessed the day we were sworn-in and you also all witnessed the day we took oath of allegiance and no other person has taken that oath again as the Governor of Abia State”,
The governor reassured the people stating that he would fight to protect the sanctity of the office and would not give it up to anybody. He also urged people to disregard the rumors that the crisis currently rocking Abia state was brought about by the Presidency.
Dr. Ikpeazu also explained the situation regarding the tax evasion allegation levelled against him by Uche Ogah, Ikpeazu said that, as a government employee, his tax was paid to Abia Board of Internal Revenue. He claimed that the board had come out with an affidavit to prove that the tax receipts he tendered were issued by it and was ready to defend the documents.
He urged the people to remain calm and that a resolution will come.
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