Abia Govt Debunks False Claims on ABSIID Project, Reaffirms Transparency in Multilateral Funding

The Abia State Government has dismissed as baseless and misleading, claims by a self-styled group, the Abia APC Renaissance Group, alleging that the state has already accessed and utilized funds from the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and the Canadian Climate Action Africa Facility (CAAF) under the Abia State Integrated Infrastructure Development (ABSIID) Project.

Describing the allegations as “a mix of ignorance and political mischief,” the government emphasized that the publication was filled with inaccuracies and a complete misunderstanding of how international development financing works.

Speaking on behalf of the government, the official in charge of multilateral and donor engagements clarified that the ABSIID Project is still in its early implementation stage, and contrary to the claim that $123 million had been credited to the state, only $115,000 has been received. This amount, he explained, was strictly for project takeoff logistics such as staffing and coordination — and has not been utilized.

He further stated that no disbursements for civil works or infrastructure have been made, as the Subsidiary Loan Agreement with the IsDB is still undergoing review and finalization. In line with international best practices, both the AfDB and IsDB components operate a direct payment system, meaning that all payments go directly from the lenders to approved contractors and consultants, without passing through state government accounts.

The CAAF component, he noted, differs slightly in structure, allowing payments into a designated project account for specific climate-related interventions — all under a transparent and auditable framework jointly monitored by the lenders and the Federal Ministry of Finance.

Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, the statement highlighted that Governor Alex Otti has restored Abia’s credibility with international development partners, which had been eroded under previous administrations due to non-compliance and opacity. Today, Abia stands recognized as a model of fiscal discipline and responsible governance.

The government, however, expressed disappointment that certain politically exposed individuals, including a federal lawmaker and opposition figures, were allegedly behind the misinformation campaign aimed at discrediting the Otti administration ahead of 2027. Such politically motivated actions, it warned, not only mislead the public but also risk undermining the confidence of international partners.

“The facts are clear, the records are open, and the world is watching,” the statement read. “Abia’s reputation cannot be sacrificed on the altar of propaganda. Governance is built on truth and accountability — not political fiction.”

The Otti administration reaffirmed its focus on transformative, transparent, and partnership-driven governance, vowing not to be distracted by falsehoods.

“Abians deserve responsible leadership, and that is what they are getting. The new Abia is defined by credibility, progress, and integrity — not by the deceit of the past,” the statement concluded.