Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has directed the previous administration led by Okezie Ikpeazu to prepare for the restitution of embezzled funds, including allocations earmarked for the airport project. Otti, responding to the findings of a forensic audit of the state’s finances, clarified that his administration’s objective is solely the recovery of misappropriated funds to ensure effective governance.
Addressing supporters and loyalists of Rowland Chinwendu, the legislator representing Isiala Ngwa South State Constituency, during a solidarity visit in Nvosi, Otti emphasized his commitment to the progress and development of Abia State. He asserted that since the airport project had not materialized, the funds allocated for it should be reimbursed.
Expressing disappointment at the media backlash he faced for disclosing the audit findings, Otti underscored the importance of transparency in governance. He viewed Chinwendu’s solidarity visit as a positive gesture.
Otti reiterated the necessity of recovering stolen funds to facilitate developmental projects for the benefit of the state’s residents. He emphasized the administration’s focus on infrastructure development, environmental sanitation, and job creation.
In response, Chinwendu affirmed his obligation to represent his constituents’ interests in the legislature. He expressed solidarity with Governor Otti, highlighting their shared commitment to the development of their locality.
Chinwendu acknowledged Otti’s efforts, particularly in infrastructure development such as the ongoing reconstruction of the Umuikaa-Umuene road and other projects within his constituency.