Gov. Eno Prepares 2026 Budget with Community Input, But Critics Question Transparency and Long-Term Impact
In a move positioned as grassroots-driven governance, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has received a needs assessment document from the people of Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency, signaling what he describes as an inclusive approach to the upcoming 2026 state budget.
The document was formally presented during an empowerment programme and town hall meeting held on Friday, where Eno emphasized the need for citizen participation in shaping government priorities.
“The idea behind the document’s submission is to get the people to continue to participate in governance… so that when the government is preparing the 2026 budget, the people’s demands can be easily accommodated,” the governor said.
Governance with the People Or Just Good Optics?
While the move appears commendable on the surface, critics argue it may be more of a political performance than a structural reform. For one, no clear mechanism was revealed for how the needs assessment would be evaluated, filtered, or prioritized within the state’s actual budgeting process. Who determines what qualifies as a “pressing need,” and what safeguards exist to prevent political favoritism disguised as grassroots feedback?
Still, the governor insists the initiative aims to bring Akwa Ibom into closer alignment with the Federal Government for improved resource access and national relevance.
“We are progressively moving forward, linking Akwa Ibom to the centre, to belong, to get its rights, and be counted,” Eno declared.
However, some political observers warn that this rhetoric of “belonging to the centre” often code for aligning with the ruling party at the federal level may come at the cost of local political independence and long-standing party ideologies, especially in the wake of Eno’s controversial defection to the APC.
Transparent Grants A Genuine Shift or Political Strategy?
Governor Eno also used the event to highlight ongoing financial empowerment efforts across the state. He emphasized that grants are being disbursed to farmers, traders, and small-scale entrepreneurs without political bias.
“We are making it possible for the child of a common man, who has no godfather or godmother… to be screened and given a grant,” he claimed.
Notably, the government has published the names, trades, phone numbers, and amounts received by beneficiaries in the official event brochure a move lauded by some as a model of transparency.
Yet the question remains: will this transparency extend beyond brochures to systemic policy audits, or is it a curated display meant to win public trust ahead of 2026 political maneuvering?
A Governor with a “Human Face” But Will That Be Enough?
Prince Enobong Uwah, Secretary to the State Government, praised the town hall as an example of people-oriented leadership. Likewise, Ikot Abasi LGA chairman Hon. Ime Williamson Essien hailed Eno as a “visionary leader” and “promise-keeper” committed to accessible governance.
But for many watching, the real test will be in the months to come: whether these community assessments genuinely shape policy, or merely serve as a democratic veneer over an already-decided agenda.
As the 2026 budget season approaches, Akwa Ibomites will be watching not just for promises but for proof that their voices hold real weight in the corridors of power.
Reference
Gov. Eno Prepares 2026 Budget with Community Input, But Critics Question Transparency and Long
The concept of citizen participation in governance is indeed a noble one, but the lack of transparency in the mechanisms for prioritizing needs raises significant concerns. How can we be sure that the voices of the most vulnerable are truly being heard and not overshadowed by political interests? While Governor Eno’s rhetoric about aligning Akwa Ibom with the Federal Government is ambitious, one must question whether this alignment will genuinely benefit the state or merely serve as a tool for political consolidation. The emphasis on grants without political bias is commendable, but without clear evidence of impartiality, skepticism remains. Is there a system in place to audit the distribution of these grants to ensure fairness? The initiative has potential, but its success hinges on the government’s willingness to be transparent and accountable. Do you believe this approach will lead to tangible improvements for the people of Akwa Ibom, or is it merely a strategic move to gain political leverage?