Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has dismissed allegations by a faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Chief Eze Chikamnayo questioning the N54 billion budgeted in 2024 for the renovation of public schools in the state.
The group had claimed, after on-the-spot inspections of schools in Ugwunagbo and Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Areas, that many facilities remained in a dilapidated state despite the budgetary provision.
Reacting during a media chat in Umuahia, Governor Otti said he was not surprised by the group’s comments, revealing that he had received their materials even before their press conference in Abuja.
“I was aware of what they were going to say. Their materials were sent to me before the press briefing,” Otti stated. “Chikamnayo does not have integrity. The audited account for December 2021 clearly states how the N54 billion was spent. He does not understand numbers.”
The governor further accused Chikamnayo of political opportunism, alleging that he had sought a role in the current administration but was turned down.
“He sent someone to me saying he wanted to be part of my government, and I said no. He wants to be in every government. He doesn’t have credibility,” Otti added.
Governor Otti reiterated that his administration remains committed to transforming the state’s education sector, stressing that ongoing projects and renovations are evidence of prudent use of public funds.
