Top 10 Richest Politicians In Cross River State

Now let’s be honest, shall we? In Nigeria, when people talk about politicians, you and I both know it’s not always because of their love for public service. Most times, it's the wealth—the cars, the houses, the convoys, the designer clothes, and of course, the rumors of offshore accounts. And when you narrow it down to Cross River State, you quickly realize that this beautiful state isn’t just rich in culture and tourism—it’s also home to some of the most financially buoyant political heavyweights in Nigeria.

If you’ve ever wondered who the real moneybags of Cross River politics are, this is the blog post for you. I’m not just dropping dry facts like a tired Wikipedia entry—no, no. We’re going on a proper gist-fueled journey through the lives (and wallets) of Cross River’s top 10 richest politicians. So grab a snack and get comfy. We're about to count down the richest movers and shakers in the political arena of the land of Calabar Carnival and Obudu Cattle Ranch.

1. Donald Duke – The Stylish Billionaire

Ah yes, the one and only Donald Duke. You know him. Even if you don’t know his net worth, you know that man has vibes. Former Governor of Cross River State (1999–2007), Donald Duke made people pay attention to Cross River for all the right reasons. Tinapa, Obudu Mountain Resort, the Calabar Christmas Carnival—he was the mastermind behind those game-changers.

But beyond his political stardom, Duke is also a successful businessman. From hospitality to real estate and media, the man has his hands in many pies. And let’s not forget his investments in tourism development across Nigeria. It’s estimated that he’s worth somewhere between $30 million to $40 million. In a country where people hide their money in coded places, if Donald is publicly known to be this wealthy, best believe the private figure is even sweeter.

2. Liyel Imoke – The Quiet Money Man

Liyel Imoke is like that rich uncle at the family function who doesn’t talk too much, but everyone knows he has serious money. He succeeded Donald Duke as Governor and served from 2007 to 2015. Before that, he was Minister of Power and Steel at the federal level.

Now, what many people don’t know is that Imoke comes from a legacy family. His father was a senator in the First Republic, so he didn’t exactly start from scratch. But Liyel didn’t rest on family name alone—he made his own wealth too. With interests in law, infrastructure, and quiet investments scattered across Nigeria, Liyel is estimated to be worth around $50 million. He might not be loud, but his bank account is definitely speaking volumes.

3. Edem Duke – The Culture King with the Coins

You may not see him contesting elections every cycle, but Edem Duke is easily one of the most influential political figures from Cross River. He served as Nigeria’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation. And if you know how much influence that ministry holds in a place like Cross River—where tourism is practically gold—you know why Edem’s name carries weight.

Apart from his time in public service, Edem owns several hospitality businesses, including hotels and media outfits. While exact numbers vary, estimates place his wealth well into the hundreds of millions in naira. Some even say he’s a billionaire in local currency. Whether or not that’s accurate, what’s clear is this: Edem Duke is one cultural icon who definitely doesn't need to ask for fuel money.

4. Gershom Bassey – The Business-Minded Senator

Next on our list is Senator Gershom Bassey. This man has done it all. He’s been an engineer, a businessman, a senator, and a top political strategist in the state. But what really boosted his finances was his involvement in construction and engineering through his company, Lilleker Nigeria Limited.

Lilleker has handled major infrastructural projects across Nigeria, especially in Cross River State. That company is not just a money machine—it’s a gold mine. Combine that with his senator salary, allowances, and other “benefits” (we know how Nigerian politics works), and it’s no surprise that Bassey's estimated net worth sits comfortably around $30 million. Not bad for a man who started out with a toolbox and a blueprint.

5. Benedict Ayade – The Professor-Turned-Millionaire Governor

Governor Ben Ayade is one of the most interesting personalities to ever run Cross River State. He’s a professor of Environmental Microbiology, and while that alone won’t make you a millionaire in Nigeria, his journey through business and politics surely did.

Ayade didn’t wait for government money to become rich. Before becoming governor, he had investments in agriculture, education, and industry. He owns several companies and was once recognized for building Africa’s first vitaminized rice mill. Add to that his tenure as a senator and then governor, and you can easily see how he made his way into the millionaires’ club. Estimates place his wealth between $15 million and $30 million—and those might be conservative figures.

6. Florence Ita-Giwa – Mama Bakassi and Her Empire

Florence Ita-Giwa, fondly called “Mama Bakassi,” is a woman who’s worn many hats—senator, presidential adviser, activist, and humanitarian. But don't let her gentle tone and motherly vibe fool you—this woman is rich.

Apart from her public service, Florence has major business interests. She’s rumored to have oil interests and significant property investments in Lagos and Calabar. Her flamboyant lifestyle and philanthropy work suggest that her wealth is not just for show. She’s estimated to be worth around $15 million. Mama Bakassi is not only a voice for the people—she’s also a financially savvy queen.

7. Walter Onnoghen – The Man from the Bench with the Bank

Yes, I know. Technically, Walter Onnoghen was a judge and not an elected politician. But as the former Chief Justice of Nigeria, he’s very much a political figure—and a very wealthy one at that.

Onnoghen’s wealth comes from decades of service in Nigeria’s legal system, including top-level judicial perks, international speaking engagements, and substantial retirement benefits. Plus, like many of his peers, he has investments in property and perhaps even shares in private ventures. He’s believed to be worth between $20 million and $50 million. Talk about justice being not only blind—but also balling.

8. Victor Ndoma-Egba – The Legal-Political Bridge

Victor Ndoma-Egba is one of those people who walk into a room and everybody takes notice. Why? Because he’s got brains, charisma, and yes—money. He’s a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), a former senator, and he even chaired the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) at some point.

His wealth stems from a very successful legal practice, numerous political appointments, and investments in real estate and education. With an estimated net worth of about $8 million, Ndoma-Egba is proof that the combination of law and politics is a money-making machine—especially when you're at the top of your game in both.

9. John Owan Enoh – The Farmer-Politician

John Owan Enoh might not be the flashiest name on this list, but his wealth is built on solid, earthy ground—literally. This former senator is also one of the biggest agribusiness investors in Cross River State.

He owns thousands of hectares of farmland producing cassava, oil palm, and other crops. His farm is one of the most mechanized in the region. Plus, his time in the Senate and other government roles added nicely to his income. While there’s no definitive figure on his net worth, it’s safe to say he’s in the multi-million-dollar range.

10. Goddy Jedy Agba – Oil, Power, and Prosperity

Last but not least, we have Goddy Jedy Agba. He’s a former Group General Manager at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), and more recently, he served as Minister of State for Power.

With a long career in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector (arguably the most lucrative industry in Africa), Agba has done quite well for himself. Combine that with a stint in federal politics, and you’re looking at someone who probably doesn’t check his bank balance before buying a new car. While estimates vary, it’s safe to say he’s a millionaire many times over.

Final Thoughts: Power and Wealth Go Hand in Hand

If there’s one thing this list proves, it’s that in Cross River State, as in many parts of Nigeria, the link between politics and wealth is not just a theory—it’s a fact. But beyond the whispers of “they stole it” or “it’s public money,” many of these politicians actually had successful careers in law, engineering, hospitality, farming, and academia before they stepped into public office.

Some inherited wealth, others built it brick by brick. But whatever the case, one thing is clear: these are not your average salary earners. These are individuals who used their skills, connections, and public service to create empires that will outlive their political careers.

Whether you see it as inspiration, motivation, or even as a challenge to do better for the people, the lesson remains—knowledge, access, and timing are everything. And maybe, just maybe, if you play your cards right, your name could be on this list one day too.