Ben Ezechime, Enugu
The Enugu State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, has dismissed allegations making the rounds that her office was involved in a visa fraud, describing it as false and malicious.
It would be recalled that there were reports recently in the social media that over 30 persons were defrauded in a failed trip by the state’s cultural troupe to Paris, France.
However, emerging facts showed that only 23 persons were billed for the trip, just as the commissioner didn’t receive personal payments from any individual or group in relation to the visa processing.
Madueke in a statement she personally signed dismissed the alleged involvement of her office and threatened to seek redress against those who defamed her character.
The statement reads: “My attention has been drawn to a false and malicious article currently circulating online and on social media, alleging my involvement in a so-called visa fraud scheme involving thirty-four (34) Enugu State indigenes purportedly enlisted for a cultural performance at the 2024 Olympic Games in France.
“Let me state the facts clearly and unequivocally: Yes, the Enugu State Ministry of Culture and Tourism was officially invited to participate in cultural showcases scheduled to accompany the 2024 Olympic Games in France.
“As part of our preparations, the Ministry assembled a contingent of talented cultural performers and initiated the standard visa application process through appropriate diplomatic channels.
“However, despite our best efforts, the visa applications were denied by the French Embassy, a matter entirely beyond our control,” she said.
The commissioner added that at no point was there any fraudulent activity, financial extortion, or abuse of office in the process.
She said: “that I wish to categorically deny the fabricated allegations that I received personal payments from any individual or group in relation to visa processing.
“I forged or facilitated any fraudulent documentation.
“I conspired with anyone to extort funds from citizens under false pretenses.
“These claims are false, defamatory, and deeply malicious, designed purely to tarnish my image and the work we are doing to reposition Enugu State as a cultural and tourism destination of excellence.”
Madueke said that all the processes handled by the Ministry were official, documented, and verifiable.
“No personal account of mine was used for any government transaction.
“The Ministry was never involved in collecting money from individuals for visa procurement, nor did I authorize any such activity.
“I have instructed my legal team to take immediate legal action against the originators and distributors of this slanderous publication.
“I have also petitioned relevant law enforcement and cybercrime agencies to investigate this coordinated attempt to defame my name and obstruct the development of our cultural sector.
“The public is advised to treat these allegations as baseless lies and to await the outcome of legal and investigative processes.
“I remain committed to serving the people of Enugu State with integrity, openness, and professionalism.
“No amount of blackmail or false accusations will derail our mission to promote our culture and empower our creative sector,” she said.
