A fresh debate has emerged over Abia State’s federal allocations, as officials urge residents to rely on verifiable data rather than unsubstantiated claims. Emphasizing transparency, the state government insists that figures relating to monthly disbursements from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) are publicly accessible and should form the basis of any credible discussion.
The statement, attributed to Chief Press Secretary Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, challenges former Finance Commissioner Obinna Oriaku to provide evidence supporting his assertions about Abia’s monthly receipts. According to the government, claims that the state receives between ₦38 billion and ₦60 billion monthly lack backing from official records published by the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation.
To support its position, the government referenced FAAC data from 2019 and 2025, highlighting a clear pattern in allocations. In April, August, and December 2019, when total national revenue ranged between ₦617 billion and ₦769 billion, Abia State received approximately ₦4 billion to ₦4.5 billion monthly, while its 17 local government areas shared between ₦2.5 billion and ₦2.8 billion.
By contrast, in 2025 when gross federation revenue rose significantly to between ₦2.3 trillion and ₦3.8 trillion—Abia’s share increased proportionally to between ₦13 billion and ₦15.4 billion, with local governments receiving between ₦7.3 billion and ₦9.2 billion. The government argues that this growth aligns with overall revenue expansion, dismissing suggestions of exaggerated figures.
The statement further explains that when adjusted for exchange rate fluctuations, the value of allocations in dollar terms reveals a different perspective. For instance, in April 2019, Abia’s allocation translated to over $13 million, while in April 2025 it stood at about $8.7 million, reflecting the impact of naira depreciation despite higher nominal figures.
Officials also pointed to historical financial interventions, including bailout funds and Paris Club refunds, as part of Abia’s fiscal history. These, they argue, should be considered when evaluating past and present financial management.
In addition, the government highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects across the state, including road reconstructions, bridge development, and urban renewal efforts, as evidence of improved utilization of available resources. Projects in Aba, Umuahia, and surrounding areas were cited as indicators of progress under the current administration.
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While acknowledging that challenges remain, the statement maintains that Abia is on a path of measurable improvement. It calls on stakeholders and the public to engage constructively, using officially published data to assess performance and hold leaders accountable.
