By ANIEFIOK UDONQUAK, Uyo –
A heated dispute has erupted among Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Akwa Ibom State, with rival groups trading accusations over the legitimacy of an umbrella body claiming to represent them.
The controversy has sparked concerns about transparency and representation within the state’s civil society space.
Director of the Centre for Human Rights Accountability Network (CHRAN), Franklyn Isong, declared at a press conference that no umbrella CSO exists in Akwa Ibom State. Following an investigation and consultations among CSO members, Isong stated that claims of a unified body are baseless.
He cautioned the public against engaging with anyone claiming to be the chairman of such a group, warning that “they do not represent the civil society organisations operating in Akwa Ibom State.”
Isong emphasized that CSOs are independent entities registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to pursue specific mandates, not political organizations with elections or divisions.
He challenged any purported umbrella group to reveal itself, asserting that no such entity exists.
In response, Harry Udoh, leader of the Guild of Community Development Advocates, defended the legitimacy of the Akwa Ibom State Civil Society Organisations Forum, which he claims was established in 2008 and registered with the CAC in 2014.
Udoh, who was elected in 2023 to lead a national CSO self-regulation initiative, highlighted the forum’s work in fostering development while respecting the autonomy of other CSOs.
He urged the public, government, and donor agencies to ignore efforts to discredit the forum and engage only through its recognized leadership.
The ongoing conflict has raised questions about unity and accountability among Akwa Ibom’s CSOs, with both sides calling for clarity to maintain public trust.
