The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has dismissed as false a report circulating on social media claiming that it plans to pass a bill criminalising sexual relationships with married men.
In a press release issued on Monday, Chairman, House Committee on Information, Hon. (Elder) Jerry Anson Otu said the report, attributed to a Facebook post by one Obiavel Albert Abigo, was fabricated and had no basis in fact.
The viral claim alleged that a bill sponsored by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, sought to impose a 10-year prison sentence on women found guilty of engaging in sexual relationships with married men, while men would pay a ₦2 million fine.
The Assembly categorically denied the claim, stressing that no such bill has been received, considered, or sponsored by the Deputy Governor or any member of the House.
Describing the report as a malicious attempt to tarnish the image of the Deputy Governor and the legislature, the House urged members of the public to disregard what it called fake news and related commentaries.
“The House remains committed to its constitutional role of law-making and will not be swayed by mischievous attempts to undermine its integrity,” the statement added.
