The Abia State Government has reacted to recent public comments credited to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR, in which he claimed to have extended gestures of cooperation and partnership to Governor Alex Otti, OFR, on development initiatives within the state.
While the State Government remains committed to maintaining decorum and refrains from engaging in political altercations, it considers it necessary to clarify key issues surrounding the claims and recent developments.
Governor Alex Otti has consistently demonstrated that governance, not political rivalry, remains his foremost priority. This approach is evident in his willingness to support development projects facilitated by federal lawmakers across Abia State, including those attracted by Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu. In a notable demonstration of goodwill, the Governor approved and allocated a sizeable parcel of land along the Umuahia–Bende Road for the construction of a housing estate initiated by the Deputy Speaker for his constituency. Despite political pressure, Governor Otti gave express approval for the project, underscoring his commitment to collaboration and inclusive development.
Contrary to these gestures, the State Government expressed concern over actions taken by the Deputy Speaker that appear inconsistent with established procedures.
The demolition of Eluokwu Community School in Igbere, Bende Local Government Area a public school already awarded for upgrade into a smart school by the Abia State Government was carried out without consultation with relevant state authorities.
This action sharply contrasts with the Governor’s adherence to due process in coordinating projects involving other arms of government.
The Government views the demolition as a direct affront to its authority and institutional processes. Reports indicate that the contractors handling the state-approved renovation were present at the site when the demolition occurred, yet the exercise proceeded regardless. Given the Deputy Speaker’s legislative experience, the State Government finds it troubling that no formal request was made for an alternative project location an appeal that would likely have been granted in good faith.
Following the incident, the Abia State Government sealed the demolished school in accordance with the law. Rather than pursue resolution through appropriate state channels, Rt. Hon. Kalu reportedly escalated the matter to Abuja. After investigations, authorities reportedly cautioned him against bypassing due process and advised that future projects must obtain approvals from relevant local and state institutions. This lawful approach mirrors the standard Governor Otti has consistently applied in executing federal projects within the state, a practice that has fostered a cordial working relationship between Abia State and the Federal Government.
The State Government also acknowledged the Deputy Speaker’s political invitation extended to Governor Otti, which appears to have been declined or left unanswered. While the Governor respects diverse political affiliations, he remains focused on delivering accountable governance to the people of Abia State.
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The Abia State Government reiterates its commitment to cooperation, lawful engagement, and development driven by mutual respect and due process.
Signed:
Citizen Njoku Ukoha
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State
January 28, 2026