CALABAR, NIGERIA – Cross River State has recorded a 209% increase in revenue under Governor Bassey Edet Otu, but critics question whether the numbers tell the whole story.
Data obtained from the state’s Ministry of Finance show revenue rose from ₦22 billion to ₦46 billion in under two years. Government officials project a near doubling of that figure by year-end.
However, a public commentary by Lagos-based analyst Kalu Okoronkwo challenged the state’s fiscal performance, citing a dip in Q1 2025 VAT remittance as proof of economic decline.
But Edem Darlington, Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, dismissed the claim as “baseless” and “politically motivated.”
“You can’t judge a full year’s economic progress on one quarter,” Darlington said in Calabar. “Cross River’s VAT remittance for 2024 stood at ₦9.36 billion, the best in recent years.”
BudgetIT, a civic tech organization, ranked Cross River as the fourth-best performing state in fiscal responsibility as of October 2024.
“The facts are there. Cross River attracted $25.85 million in foreign investments in 2024, more than any South-South state,” said Darlington, insisting the administration’s performance is backed by independent data.
Beyond finance, the administration has completed critical infrastructure, including the Yahe-Wanakom Road in Yala LGA and the Adiabo-Eseku-Ikoneto Road in Odukpani.
“These roads are not just projects, they are economic arteries,” said infrastructure consultant Paul Etta, noting their importance to inter-state trade with Benue.
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The state also rehabilitated the Governor’s Office, refurbished the abandoned state library into a tech-equipped facility, and remodeled the Calabar Cultural Center.
Civil servants and retirees have reported timely salary and pension payments, a shift from prior years of delay.
“I got my gratuity after waiting five years,” said retired nurse Theresa Ovat in Obubra. “It’s a relief.”
Critics like Okoronkwo allege the administration is overselling progress. But Darlington fired back, “If he wants credible data, he should come to Cross River. Remote criticism isn’t credible.”
Analysts say midterm reviews often become political battlegrounds. “The data looks promising, but sustainability will be the real test,” said economist Dr. Iniobong Udofia.
With two years left in his term, Governor Otu faces mounting pressure to turn midterm momentum into long-term growth. For now, the numbers and roads seem to tell a compelling story.