Death threats rock Akwa Ibom transparency case
Two legal practitioners in Akwa Ibom State have reportedly received death threats after filing a suit to compel all 31 local government councils to disclose how public funds are spent under the Freedom of Information Act, 2011.
Akaninyene Archibong and Edidiong Ebong approached the Federal High Court in Uyo in Suit No. FHC/UY/CS/80/2026, seeking judicial review to enforce transparency and accountability in local government finances across the state.
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Etim Ekpimah
Two legal practitioners in Akwa Ibom State have reportedly received death threats after filing a suit to compel all 31 local government councils to disclose how public funds are spent under the Freedom of Information Act, 2011.
Akaninyene Archibong and Edidiong Ebong approached the Federal High Court in Uyo in Suit No. FHC/UY/CS/80/2026, seeking judicial review to enforce transparency and accountability in local government finances across the state.
According to a highly placed source, one local government chairman allegedly made threatening remarks in a leaked telephone conversation, warning that the lawyers would be targeted for pressing for financial disclosure.
The reported threat has heightened concerns over the safety of the two lawyers and raised fresh questions about transparency, accountability and the risks faced by individuals pursuing public interest litigation.
Despite the alleged intimidation, both legal practitioners are said to remain committed to their case, which many observers view as a significant test of openness in grassroots governance.
On 4 May 2026, Justice M.A. Onyetenu granted the applicants leave to amend their ex parte motion, include a deeming order, and proceed with the substantive judicial review application against the 31 respondent councils.
The matter was subsequently adjourned until 30 June 2026 for hearing.
The case has drawn attention from citizens and accountability advocates, with growing calls for security agencies and relevant authorities to ensure the protection of the applicants while the judicial process continues.
