By Dr. Ubi Arikpo Edet
CALABAR– The recent judgment of the High Court of Cross River State against the Commissioner for Science and Innovation, Oden Ewa, in a ₦208 million Diamond Bank fraud case has once again brought to the fore the moral crisis afflicting public service in Nigeria.
For a state that prides itself on integrity, hospitality, and excellence, this development is both embarrassing and deeply troubling. The court’s ruling, which reportedly found Ewa complicit in fraudulent dealings, raises serious questions not just about his personal integrity but also about the standards of governance under Governor Bassey Otu’s administration.
It is no longer a matter of rumor or political propaganda a competent court of jurisdiction has ruled. The law has spoken. The moral burden now rests on Oden Ewa himself and on the leadership of the state government to act decisively.
Only recently, Nigerians witnessed the resignation of Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, the former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, following revelations of certificate forgery. His resignation was seen as a necessary step to preserve the integrity of the office and protect the reputation of the administration he served under.
If Minister Nnaji could step down to allow justice and truth to take their course, why should Oden Ewa cling to office in the face of a judicial indictment involving ₦208 million fraud?
Public office is not a birthright; it is a sacred trust. And when that trust is broken or even perceived to be the honourable path is resignation. Anything less would amount to contempt for the people and mockery of the justice system.
Governor Bassey Otu, who has earned a reputation for fairness and accountability, must not allow this case to cast a shadow over his administration. By relieving Oden Ewa of his duties, the Governor would not only uphold the moral code of leadership but also send a strong message that Cross River State remains a land of integrity, not impunity.
The people are watching. Civil society is watching. The nation is watching.
To Oden Ewa, the honourable thing to do is simple: Resign.
To Governor Bassey Otu, the courageous thing to do is clear: Remove him.
In the end, leadership is not measured by how long one stays in power, but by how firmly one stands for truth when it matters most.
