Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has handed over brand-new luxury SUVs to all former deputy governors of the state as part of a gesture to honor their contributions to Akwa Ibom’s development.
Governor Eno, in a statement on his official X handle, said the vehicles were a token of appreciation for the former deputies’ 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 years of service and sacrifice,” he wrote, adding that their dedication played a role in shaping the state’s progress and deserved to be rewarded with comfort and convenience.
The SUV presentation is part of the state’s ₦6 billion 2025 allocation for vehicle purchases for political and administrative officials. Budget records indicate that ₦3 billion was earmarked for 30 SUVs, while ₦3 billion was set aside for 70 saloon cars.
Between January and September 2024 alone, ₦1.6 billion had already been spent on similar vehicle acquisitions, with another ₦3.6 billion going toward saloon cars in the same period.
The move has drawn attention from observers who note that while honoring former officials is common practice, it comes amid increasing public debate over prudent use of government resources.
Governor Eno’s office has not clarified whether similar provisions will be made for other categories of political appointees, leaving open questions about the long-term vehicle procurement policy of the state.
