Group Task Gov Otti, As Tinubu Queries Conversion Of Private Residence To Government House

Umuahia, Abia State – Abia State Governor Alex Otti is facing mounting pressure to relocate government operations from his private residence after President Bola Tinubu publicly criticised the practice.

The pro-good governance group, Abia Good Governance Coalition (ABGGC), has joined the chorus of voices demanding the governor’s immediate move to one of the state’s official Government Houses.

President Tinubu, in a viral video, expressed his disapproval of Governor Otti’s use of his private residence in Umuehim Nvosi, Isialangwa South LGA, as the seat of government.

He highlighted the significant increase in state allocations since his administration assumed office, stating that FAAC allocations to states have tripled since May 29th, 2023.

He challenged governors to dispute this claim, asserting that the increased funds should allow for the maintenance or construction of adequate government facilities.

Governor Otti’s actions, according to the ABGGC’s Facilitator, Comrade Maduakolam Okorie, violate constitutional provisions.

All government functions, including executive council and security council meetings, are currently held at the governor’s private residence, a practice deemed unacceptable by many.

This stands in contrast to previous administrations which utilised the existing Government Houses in Umuahia and Aba.

The immediate past governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, even constructed a new Government House in Umuahia before leaving office.

Adding fuel to the fire, the Otti administration recently reported a ₦30 billion expenditure for the “Government House,” further fueling accusations of misappropriation.

Sources indicate that the cost of maintaining security and logistics around the governor’s private residence places an undue burden on the state’s finances. Multiple new buildings have also been erected on the property to accommodate government officials.

The public rebuke by President Tinubu, who Governor Otti has portrayed as a close friend and ally, has sparked considerable political speculation.

While Otti has cultivated the image of having strong connections within the President’s inner circle, Tinubu’s remarks suggest a potential rift. Observers believe that this could be a subtle warning, given that Abia remains an opposition state.

The ABGGC’s Okorie interprets Tinubu’s comments as a declaration of political war ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial elections.

He believes the Governor’s reliance on his perceived closeness to the President is a risky political strategy and calls on Governor Otti to focus on governance rather than “influence peddling and name-dropping.”

With a strong APC presence in Abia, many anticipate a fierce electoral battle in 2027. The incident leaves many questioning the true nature of the relationship between President Tinubu and Governor Otti, and whether it will ultimately serve the President’s political ambitions.