Tensions are rising in Abia State as the All Progressives Congress (APC) has thrown its full weight behind the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, over his recent outcry against alleged financial mismanagement by the Labour Party-led administration of Governor Alex Otti.
Kalu, speaking at two separate events; the commissioning of a road project in Aba on October 3rd and a town hall meeting in Umuahia on October 5th – questioned the transparency of Otti’s government, claiming that despite receiving over ₦1 trillion since taking office, the administration has little to show for it.
The Abia APC echoed Kalu’s stance in a strong-worded statement signed by its acting publicity secretary, Uche Egboka, describing the current state government as one marked by “poor governance” and a “lack of accountability.”
According to Kalu, the Abia State government received ₦38 billion monthly in revenue between April and June 2025; a figure the APC describes as “mind-boggling,” especially when compared to the scope of visible projects in the state.
“From all indications, there is a clear mismatch between funds received and what’s on ground,” the party said. “Abians deserve to know where this money has gone.”
The party also spotlighted a major controversy; the ₦54 billion allegedly spent on renovating 51 public schools in 2024. The APC wants this expenditure investigated, noting that many schools across the state are still in dire condition.
This brewing confrontation isn’t just about accountability but also political.
Kalu confidently declared that the APC is gearing up to take over Abia State in 2027, urging Abians to reject what he called “cosmetic development” and demand value for money.
The state chapter of the APC reinforced this ambition, vowing to align more closely with the Federal Government to deliver true dividends of democracy.
They also joined the Deputy Speaker in demanding payment of outstanding gratuities, full implementation of the new national minimum wage, recently signed into law by the Federal Government
“The APC is ready to rescue Abia,” the statement concluded. “The people deserve better, and come 2027, they’ll get it.”