The Ikono Local Government Council has debunked reports alleging that teenage female footballers from the area were stranded and abandoned in Abuja by the Council Chairman, Hon. Oto-Obong Essien.

In a statement issued by the Council’s Special Assistant on Media, Publicity and Strategy, Comrade Emmanuel Ufon, the report, which circulated across several online and print platforms was described as “entirely false, misleading and malicious.”

According to the release, all players and officials of the Elegant Angels Female Football Academy are “comfortably lodged in safe and secure accommodation in Abuja,” with full sponsorship and supervision from the management of the academy and the Akwa Ibom State Football Association.

“The team is safe, well-fed, and actively participating in the ongoing U-18 10th Senate President’s Cup Tournament,” the statement affirmed.

It further clarified that the players were never left to “sleep in an open stadium” or “exposed to danger,” as claimed in the false reports.

The Council however, maintained that the publication was a calculated attempt to tarnish the image of Hon. Essien, who has been a strong advocate for grassroots sports and youth development.

“The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has no involvement in this baseless allegation, describing any attempt to link him to the report as unfair and irresponsible.”

Hon. Essien, through her media aide, reiterated her continued commitment to empowering youths and promoting sports at the grassroots level.

The council urged media practitioners to always verify information before publication to prevent misleading the public and damaging reputations.