Akwa Ibom is more than oil and tourism—it is also home to some of Nigeria’s most affluent politicians. From former governors to senators and federal lawmakers, these individuals have combined public service with private investments to build financial empires.

Let’s explore the top 10 richest politicians in Akwa Ibom State, their sources of wealth, and the controversies surrounding their fortunes.

1. Godswill Akpabio: The Lion of Akwa Ibom

With an estimated wealth between $100 million and $380 million, Akpabio towers over the state’s political and financial scene. His wealth stems from politics, real estate, and influence in oil-related deals. As Senate President and a former governor, Akpabio remains one of Nigeria’s most powerful politicians.

2. Udom Emmanuel: The Banker-Governor

Udom Emmanuel, who governed Akwa Ibom from 2015 to 2023, came into politics after a stellar career in banking. His wealth is estimated at $50 million to $250 million, driven by real estate, private investments, and political earnings.

3. Udo Udoma: The Legal Heavyweight

A senior advocate, lawmaker, and minister, Udo Udoma built his wealth through law practice, board memberships, and politics. His net worth is pegged between $60 million and $270 million, making him one of Akwa Ibom’s most respected political elites.

4. Ita Enang: The Consistent Politician

With a political career spanning decades, Ita Enang has served as a legislator and presidential aide. His estimated wealth of $40 million to $300 million comes from politics, consultancy, and real estate.

5. Victor Attah: The Architect-Governor

A trained architect and governor from 1999 to 2007, Victor Attah is credited with shaping Uyo’s skyline. His wealth is estimated between $30 million and $230 million, built from real estate, pensions, and architecture-related investments.

6. Aloysius Akpan Etok

This former senator commands an estimated net worth of $10 million to $200 million, largely from politics and real estate. Though less flamboyant, he remains one of Akwa Ibom’s quiet power brokers.

7. Bassey Albert Akpan (OBA)

Known for his influence in both finance and politics, OBA’s wealth is estimated between $5 million and $150 million. His background in banking and political career created his financial base.

8. Nsima Ekere

As a former MD of NDDC, Nsima Ekere leveraged his position to expand his fortune, estimated between $4 million and $180 million. Real estate and contracts also contributed significantly.

9. Unyime Idem

A businessman turned lawmaker, Unyime Idem has interests in telecoms, agriculture, and real estate. His wealth is estimated between $3 million and $160 million, making him one of the youngest wealthy politicians in the state.

Honourable Mentions

Other politicians, especially commissioners and local powerbrokers, continue to amass fortunes through contracts and investments, though their wealth is not as publicly documented.

Wealth-Building Patterns Among Akwa Ibom Politicians

1. Politics as a gateway to wealth

2. Strategic land and real estate investments

3. Business ownership in high-growth sectors

4. Corporate board positions and consultancies

5. Banking and financial backgrounds

The Transparency Challenge

Estimating the wealth of Nigerian politicians is tricky. Asset declarations are often incomplete, and media reports tend to exaggerate. Add currency fluctuations and rumors, and you get numbers that should be taken cautiously.

Final Thoughts

The richest politicians in Akwa Ibom State are not just political leaders; they are businessmen, investors, and power brokers. Their fortunes reflect the intersection of politics and business in Nigeria.

From Akpabio’s political dominance to Udom Emmanuel’s banking expertise, and from Victor Attah’s architectural legacy to Unyime Idem’s entrepreneurial spirit, Akwa Ibom continues to produce leaders whose wealth keeps them at the center of Nigeria’s political economy.