The Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Kufre Abasi Edidem, has said rising inflation has eroded the value of lawmakers’ monthly imprest, despite an increase from ₦2.5 million to ₦3.5 million under Governor Umo Eno.
Edidem disclosed that the additional ₦1 million had become less impactful due to the rising cost of goods and services, making it harder for lawmakers to meet the financial expectations of their constituents.
He spoke while serving as Chairman of the Occasion at the 2026 Chapel Week celebration of the Federated Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, held at the Patience Umo Eno Hall, Uyo.
The increase represents a 40 per cent rise in the monthly imprest allocated to each lawmaker.
However, the two-term lawmaker said the purchasing power of the current allocation had declined significantly compared with what the same amount could buy in 2019.
He explained that the rising cost of living had placed additional financial pressure on elected representatives, who are often expected to provide assistance to constituents facing various challenges.
According to Edidem, some lawmakers now dip into their personal savings to meet constituency demands because their monthly allocations can no longer adequately cover the expectations placed on them.
His remarks highlighted the growing financial pressures confronting public office holders as they struggle to balance official responsibilities with demands from their constituents.
The 2026 Chapel Week celebration was held under the theme, “Journalism: Promoting Responsible Leadership, Accountability and Electoral Credibility.”
Dr. George Udoh delivered a presentation on the theme, examining how journalism can promote responsible leadership, strengthen accountability and support credible electoral processes.
Barrister Morgan Ekanem, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Duties, also addressed participants at the event.
In his remarks, the NUJ Chairman in Akwa Ibom State, Comrade Nsibiet John, emphasised the media’s importance in promoting societal progress, informing citizens and holding public officials accountable.
John urged journalists to maintain professional and ethical standards while using their platforms to encourage responsible leadership and strengthen democratic institutions.
The event brought together journalists, public office holders and other stakeholders to celebrate the Federated Chapel and discuss governance, public service and the media’s role in promoting accountability.
