The construction of a multi-billion-naira International Christian Worship Center in Akwa Ibom has sparked outrage among residents of the state and Nigerians at large. The edifice, which construction started in 2021 under the Udom Emmanuel administration, reportedly cost N32.3 billion naira.
The Allegations
Several reactions have trailed the construction of the International Worship Center, with many criticizing the government for spending taxpayers’ funds on a religious project.
The Denial
The Akwa Ibom State Government has dismissed the criticisms, saying they were hypocritical.
The government argued that the project would create jobs and boost the state’s economy by attracting tourists and investors.
The government also stated that the project was funded through a public-private pOutrage as Governor Udom Emmanuel Spends N32.3BN of Taxpayers’ Funds to Build International Christian Worship Center Church in Akwa Ibomartnership, with the private sector contributing a significant portion of the funds
The Impact
The construction of the International Worship Center has sparked a heated debate on social media, with many Nigerians expressing their displeasure at the government’s decision to spend such a significant amount of money on a religious project.
Some have called for an investigation into the funding of the project, while others have criticized the government for neglecting more pressing issues in the state
The Akwa Ibom State Government has dismissed the criticisms, saying they were hypocritical, and argued that the project would create jobs and boost the state’s economy.
The controversy surrounding the project highlights the need for transparency and accountability in government spending, particularly when it comes to religious projects funded with taxpayers’ money.