April 08, (THEWILL) – Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State is facing heavy criticism over his administration’s decision to hold a four-day Executive Council retreat at the upscale Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, with many describing the move as a reckless misuse of public funds.
The retreat, which commenced on Monday, was reportedly aimed at integrating new cabinet members and so-called “Delivery Advisors” into the government’s development roadmap tagged the Arise Agenda. But critics say the venue and timing are tone-deaf, especially amid deepening economic hardship in the state.
Zik Gbemre, Coordinator of the Niger Delta Peace Coalition condemned the retreat as “a squandering jamboree,” accusing Governor Eno of prioritising political optics over fiscal prudence.
“It is absolute recklessness for the Akwa Ibom government to ferry its executive council to Lagos under the guise of a retreat
“Governor Sanwo-Olu doesn’t take his cabinet outside Lagos for retreats, yet we see impact. This is a governor who preaches prudence on paper but practices excess,” he stated
Gbemre further criticised the inclusion of “Delivery Advisors,” describing them as mere rebranded project monitors with no real impact.
“It’s a flamboyant designation to mask duplication. The same recycled appointees are being given new titles while the people suffer.” he said.
He lamented what he called “capital flight,” pointing out that the funds spent in Lagos could have boosted local businesses if the retreat had been held within Akwa Ibom.
“This is a state grappling with multidimensional poverty. That money should be used to cushion the hardship being faced by our people, not on political tourism,” he added.
Also weighing in, Saviour Akpan, Executive Director of COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peacebuilding, criticised the retreat for lacking a strategic framework.
“There is no clear economic blueprint guiding this government’s activities.
“What we need is a post-retreat performance evaluation system, driven by data, not empty rhetoric,” Akpan stated.
He recommended that the State Bureau of Statistics be empowered to develop a long-term strategic plan for economic growth, one that would transcend political cycles and foster continuity.
Akpan also urged Eno to sign critical legislations such as the Disability Law and Youth Law, and to strengthen institutions like the Ethical and Attitudinal Reorientation Commission to tackle the culture of sycophancy in governance.
“People should not be clapping for the government for doing what they are elected to do—pay salaries and deliver services,” he added.
While the retreat was intended to set the tone for Eno’s developmental agenda, public opinion suggests that its perceived extravagance may have overshadowed its intended purpose, casting fresh doubt on the administration’s commitment to transparency and inclusive governance.
