Akwa Ibom Government refutes ADC’s allegations, reaffirms commitment to transparency

The Akwa Ibom State Government has dismissed recent allegations made by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing them as baseless and politically motivated falsehoods.

In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ekerete Udoh, the government criticized the ADC’s Publicity Secretary, Manfred Ekpe, for spreading misinformation in a bid to mislead the public and seek undue political relevance.

The government refuted claims that Governor Umo Eno personally awards contracts, calling the assertion “laughable” and a misrepresentation of governance procedures. It clarified that all contracts in the state go through the Finance and General Purpose Committee (FGPC) before receiving approval from the State Executive Council, ensuring adherence to budgetary provisions and due process.

Dismissing allegations that the Uyo Village Road project was awarded to Nsik Motors, the government stated that the contract was actually given to AMITEC Construction Limited, a reputable firm known for delivering quality infrastructure.

The statement emphasized that all state contracts undergo rigorous scrutiny to maintain transparency.

In addition, a Project Evaluation and Monitoring Team comprising professionals has been tasked with overseeing the execution of projects to ensure compliance with set standards and procedures.

Addressing concerns over the Arise Compassionate Homes project, the government reiterated that the initiative operates on a Direct Labour model, where resource persons from host communities handle the construction.

The statement clarified that no private company was awarded contracts for the project, and procurement laws do not require the publication of individual laborers’ names.

Each home, valued at ₦25 million, includes two bedrooms, a sitting room, and a dining area, a solar-powered borehole for constant water supply, full solar energy for sustainable power, and complete furnishing, including a sitting room set, beds, mattresses, and a dining set.

Beneficiaries also received ₦500,000 in seed funds to support petty trading. The government maintained that this initiative demonstrates prudent financial management and challenged the ADC to construct similar homes at the stated cost.

The state government also denounced claims linking Governor Umo Eno to kickbacks, labeling the accusations as “false, libelous, and an insult to the Office of the Governor.” It announced plans to pursue legal action against Manfred Ekpe and the ADC for defamation.

The statement concluded by urging the ADC to refrain from spreading falsehoods and instead focus on constructive political engagement.

It reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and sustainable development across the state.