APC Chieftain Tackles Otti Over N54bn School Renovation Saga

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia state, Paul Ikonne, has challenged Governor Alex Otti to stop “distracting the people with contradictions” and offer explanations on the N54 billion school renovation controversy.

During his monthly media chat, Otti had dismissed claims that N54 billion is missing from the state treasury, describing the allegations as baseless and a reflection of ignorance about government budgeting and spending processes.

Reacting to the governor’s claim through a statement signed by his chief press secretary, Ujo Justice, Ikonne wondered why a governor who boasts of having “seasoned accountants” in his administration would be contradicting himself “all in a bid to downplay the issue.”

He welcomed the Freedom of Information (FOI) request submitted by the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD), which is demanding a breakdown of the N54 billion, including the list of schools supposedly renovated, their names, locations, and the nature of works done.

The APC chieftain urged the governor to prioritise truth over propaganda, adding that Otti should realise that leadership is about accountability, not storytelling and can not claim to be the face of transparency while avoiding the simplest of questions – “show us the schools.”