“Inaccurate And Misleading” – Akwa Ibom Govt Reacts To Claims On State Revenue
The Akwa State Government has described as inaccurate and misleading a report by a newspaper about its revenue and expenditure in the first quarter of 2025.
In a statement by commissioner for information, Aniekan Umanah, Pastor Umo Eno-led government maintained the allegation that the state received N653.6 billion in revenue and expended N199.6 billion in the first quarter of 2025 is absolute falsehood.
The statement where the government reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and fiscal discipline reads…
The attention of the Akwa Ibom State Government has been drawn to a misleading banner headline published by The Mail Newspaper, alleging that the State received N653.6 billion in revenue and expended N199.6 billion in the first quarter of 2025.
This report is not only false but reflects a gross misrepresentation of the State’s financial position. The figures quoted are inaccurate, misleading, and entirely detached from verified financial records. The publication appears to be the product of a flawed interpretation and a lack of basic understanding of public finance ,particularly the concept of carry-over balances from the previous year, which are standard components of budgetary and treasury frameworks.
It is unprofessional to misinform the public through unchecked extrapolations and a wrong reading of complex financial documents.
His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, has continued to set a benchmark in transparent and accountable governance.
The financial resources of the State are being managed with the utmost prudence and in line with global best practices. Under his leadership, the State Government remains focused on delivering people-oriented projects and sustainable development across all 31 Local Government Areas, consistent with the pillars of the ARISE Agenda.
We commend the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for improved federal allocations which have further empowered the State to meet its obligations to its workforce, settle pension liabilities, and drive life-touching infrastructure and social development projects.
While we recognize the role of the media as partners in development, we strongly urge media organs , especially those domiciled within the State, to uphold the ethics of their profession by verifying sensitive financial information with relevant government such institutions such as the office of the Accountant General of the Federation and that of the State before publication.
Facts must never be sacrificed at the altar of sensational banner headlines. Exaggerations without context not only mislead the public but also erode public trust in journalism.
In rushing to break the news, journalists should endevour not to break the fabric of the society. That’s the sacred responsibility we expect them to uphold.
As we approach the second anniversary of this administration, the gains of the ARISE Agenda are evident -from massive investments in agriculture, rural development, to infrastructure, security, education, healthcare, and SME support.
These milestones are a direct result of careful planning, prudent financial management, and a clear vision for inclusive growth.
The Akwa Ibom State Government remains resolute in its commitment to transparency and will, as always, publish the full details of its financial records.
We urge the public to disregard the erroneous report by The Mail Newspaper and continue to support the administration’s efforts in building a better, more prosperous and inclusive Akwa Ibom State.
Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah
Commissioner for Information
