Reverend Richard Peters, the Special Assistant on Media to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, has refuted criticisms from the Civil Society Organisation, Policy Alert, regarding the approved 2023 Supplementary Budget of the state.
He described the allegations as unfounded and malicious.
Policy Alert, an organization focused on fiscal policy and ecological justice in the Niger Delta, had claimed that the Supplementary Budget included appropriations for projects that were already commissioned, the purchase of 90 SUVs for the office of the Secretary to the State Government, and plans for excessive borrowing.
Peters clarified that the Supplementary Budget submitted by the governor aimed to finance the completion of specific projects initiated by the previous administration. He emphasized that these were not projects that had already been commissioned.
Peters called on the organization to conduct a more thorough investigation and verify their data before making public statements. He also reminded that Governor Umo Eno had promised during his campaign to finish projects initiated by the previous administration, demonstrating the principle of continuity in governance.
The governor’s aide further stated that there was no borrowing by the state government, contrary to the claims made by the critic. He reiterated the importance of prudent financial management and the completion of ongoing projects to avoid waste and improve development in Akwa Ibom State.
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