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In a move that has sparked widespread outrage, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has donated brand new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado vehicles to members of the National Assembly representing the state. The decision, described by critics as a flagrant display of misplaced priorities, comes at a time when Akwa Ibom grapples with high unemployment and crumbling public services.

Human rights lawyer and social commentator Inibehe Effiong took to X to condemn the governor’s actions, labelling them “madness rooted in corruption and political desperation.” Effiong highlighted the stark contrast between the lavish gift and the dire socio-economic conditions in Akwa Ibom, where many residents face hunger and joblessness. “Akwa Ibom people are sleeping while politicians are wrecking the State,” he wrote, questioning whether the governor had considered the state’s unemployment statistics before authorising the expenditure.

The donation has reignited public discontent over the already inflated salaries and allowances of National Assembly members, who are provided with official vehicles by the federal legislature. Critics argue that the additional luxury vehicles are an unnecessary expense, particularly given the ostentatious lifestyles of many lawmakers. Effiong pointed out that Governor Eno, whose administration has been in office for two years without significant achievements, appears to prioritise political patronage over addressing pressing issues like the collapse of public education.

“Something is fundamentally wrong with Umo Eno,” Effiong stated, accusing the governor of recklessly dissipating state resources. He called on Akwa Ibom residents to hold their leaders accountable and reject what he described as a “criminal enterprise” masquerading as governance.