UNBELIEVABLE! 32 Different Accounts Where A Former Governor Allegedly Transferred N10bn Into Has Been Discovered
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, recently disclosed details of a forensic audit report that implicates the former administration of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu in misappropriating state funds. During his monthly media chat, *Governor Alex Otti Speaks to Abians, *held at Government House Umuahia, Otti shed light on the findings of the audit, indicating that around N10 billion allocated for airport development was diverted into 32 different company accounts.
Governor Otti expressed his intention to make the full forensic audit report public soon, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in governance. He highlighted that the funds were moved out of the state government’ s account before seeking approval from the Abia State House of Assembly, raising serious concerns about financial mismanagement.
The audit report allegedly reveals that the previous administration did not use the diverted funds for the intended airport project but instead transferred the money to various company accounts, contrary to public interest and accountability standards. Otti clarified that the diversion was not for road construction, as claimed by the former administration, but for personal gains, as evidenced by the audit findings.
One of the companies mentioned in the audit report is FEROTEX Construction Company, which reportedly acknowledged not applying for the airport project under the previous administration. This admission, coupled with other evidence, strengthens the allegations of financial irregularities during the Ikpeazu administration.
Governor Otti emphasized that his primary concern is the recovery of the misappropriated funds rather than punitive measures like imprisonment. He stressed the importance of restitution and ensuring that public resources are used for their intended purposes to benefit the citizens of Abia State. Regarding political developments, Otti
addressed the mass defections from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. He indicated that his government remains focused on delivering good governance and is not deterred by political realignments, as both PDP and other party members are joining the Labour Party.
Otti’ s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance reflects his administration’ s priorities in restoring public trust and fostering development in Abia State. The forthcoming publication of the forensic audit report is expected to provide further insights into the financial management practices of the previous administration, paving the way for corrective actions and ensuring a more accountable government moving forward.
