Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Henry Owen
The Akwa Ibom State Government has strongly refuted claims that it is concealing the 2025 Supplementary Budget from the public. The statement was made by Dr. Aniekan Umanah, Commissioner for Information, who described the allegations as “baseless, misleading, and utterly infantile.”
Dr. Umanah addressed journalists at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Complex, ahead of Governor Umo Eno’s presentation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill. Speaking on the article authored by Ekemini Simon, the Commissioner accused the writer of attempting to disparage the administration while seeking to justify funds obtained from donor organisations under the guise of investigative journalism.
“The government is fully aware of the writer’s intent and purpose,” Dr. Umanah stated, adding that some sections of the press should verify facts and consider the public interest before engaging in what he termed “black journalism.”
Clarifying the budget process, the Commissioner emphasized that the 2025 Supplementary Budget followed due legislative procedures. It was first laid before the State Executive Council for deliberation, publicly presented by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, transmitted to the State House of Assembly, debated, and ultimately passed before receiving gubernatorial assent.
“Where then lies the secrecy?” Dr. Umanah questioned, describing the insinuation as a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and undermine the government’s credibility.
He further assured that the supplementary budget is on schedule for public upload, noting that Akwa Ibom remains one of the most transparent subnational governments in Nigeria. He reaffirmed Governor Umo Eno’s administration’s commitment to openness, accountability, and responsible stewardship of public resources, insisting that all budgetary processes are conducted in full compliance with the law and public interest.
The statement underscores the government’s determination to maintain transparency while countering what it sees as unfounded narratives aimed at questioning its governance record.
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