Sex scandal: Mine was mistaken identity – Ikon

Hon. Samuel Ikon, one of the three House of Representatives members accused of sexual indiscretion in the US has dismissed the allegation as untrue, saying his identity had been mistaken.
Ikon, a member of Peoples Democratic Party representing Etinan/Nsit Ibom/Nsit Ubium Constituency of Akwa Ibom State, told the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Saturday that the allegation was in bad taste.
The US Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, had on Wednesday petitioned the House of Representatives alleging that Ikon and two other lawmakers solicited sex from prostitutes in Cleveland, Ohio, recently.
Others mentioned were Mohammed Gololo and Mark Gbillah.
Ikon said he was at a loss as to what the US envoy intended to achieve with the allegation, insisting that he had been mistakenly dragged into a matter he knew nothing about.
He said he was happy that the lower chamber had commenced the process of investigating the allegation and expressed confidence that he would be cleared.
He also said he had briefed his lawyers to initiate legal and diplomatic steps to get to the root of the matter “to clear my name and the institution I represent”.
Condemning the allegation by the ambassador, Ikon said: “I wish to state unequivocally that this is false and definitely not me.
“This, to me, is a case of mistaken identity and I will be vindicated.
“I have initiated measures, both legal and diplomatic, to clear my name and the institution I represent.
“There are many questions left unanswered by the actions of the US Mission, but I believe it will become clearer in the course of time.”
Ikon urged his constituents and Nigerians to be patient as the truth would be unveiled, adding that God would vindicate him.
He said: “I want to reassure all of my innocence in this matter and I call on all relevant authorities and jurisdictions to commence full investigation to correct this great injustice to me.
“I have an unwavering faith in God to see me through this trying moment and plead with all not to be hasty in condemning me as the final outcome will surely clear my name.
“I urge for patience, prayers and God’s abiding wisdom at this time.”
NAN.