Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has stirred controversy after presenting luxury SUVs to all former deputy governors of the state.
Sharing the update on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the governor described the gesture as a way of appreciating their “years of service and sacrifice.”
“I presented brand new Land Cruisers to all former deputy governors of Akwa Ibom State as a token of appreciation for their dedication. Their contributions helped shape our state’s progress, and it is only fitting that they enjoy comfort as they continue to share their wisdom with us,” he wrote.
However, the move has drawn heavy criticism, especially as it comes at a time when the state has budgeted billions for vehicles. According to budget records, the Office of the Secretary to the State Government allocated ₦3 billion for 30 SUVs in 2024, with ₦1.6 billion already spent by September of that year. Another ₦3 billion was set aside for 70 saloon cars, of which ₦3.6 billion has been spent.
For 2025, the office earmarked a staggering ₦6 billion for the purchase of luxury vehicles.
Critics argue that gifting brand new Land Cruisers to former deputy governors is wasteful and insensitive, especially when many civil servants and pensioners in the state struggle to get their dues.
“Former deputy governors already had official cars and allocations when they were in office. Many of them still collect pensions, yet you thought it wise to give them new SUVs. Meanwhile, unemployment remains high, and industries like the syringe factory are abandoned,” one user, @realsirpee, posted.
Another user, @maybatch300, slammed the decision: “This is wastefulness at its peak. That money could have been used for developmental projects. This is why we don’t see real progress as a country.”
Echoing the frustration, @Ovokiss wrote: “Former deputy governors who served 4–8 years got brand new Land Cruisers, while retired civil servants who served 36 years can’t get their pensions. Absolutely nonsense.”
