Abia Government Denies Fake Statement Linking Governor Otti to Comments Against Lagos

The Abia State Government has debunked a viral statement falsely attributed to Governor Alex Otti with the headline “Governor Alex Otti Fires Back at Lagos State Government Over Demolition of Igbo Businesses.”

In a press release issued on Sunday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, the government described the statement as “nonexistent, baseless, and a product of divisive propaganda” being circulated by frustrated political elements.

The fake statement, which claimed Governor Otti said, “I have no business with Lagos; I’m not competing with Lagos. My competition is China and Dubai. By the time I’m done with Abia, Lagos will look like a village,” was dismissed as “reckless, unintelligent, and uncharacteristic” of the Abia governor.

Ekeoma stated that Governor Otti is known for his statesmanlike composure, responsible communication, and preference for mature engagement with fellow leaders on matters affecting the people. He added that Otti’s longstanding relationship with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu makes it easy for him to communicate directly with his counterpart, without resorting to public confrontation.

“The idea that Governor Otti could make such an arrogant and divisive remark is laughable. Those behind this poorly scripted falsehood are the same political actors who panic each time his achievements receive national recognition,” Ekeoma said.

He accused the masterminds of spreading fake stories and petitions to undermine the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent project commissioning in Abia State, which, despite the President’s absence, received unprecedented support and attention nationwide.

Ekeoma emphasized that Governor Otti’s focus remains on transforming Abia into a model state driven by excellence and development, not on engaging in political distractions or rivalry.

He further urged Abians, particularly social media users, to verify information before sharing and to disregard fabricated stories designed to create tension and disunity.

“Abia has moved beyond the era of mediocrity. The desperate attempts by failed politicians to distract Governor Otti will continue to fail,” the statement concluded.