The political landscape in Abia State has been rocked by fresh allegations and counter-allegations, as former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu’s camp accuses Governor Alex Otti of employing falsehood and blackmail tactics. In a scathing statement released by Ikpeazu’s spokesperson, Onyebuchi Ememanka, Otti is accused of neglecting key projects initiated during Ikpeazu’s tenure, particularly the Enyimba Automated Shoe Company (ENASCO).
Ememanka’s statement, titled “Raw and Undisguised Mischief as a Tool of Governance by Governor Otti,” lambasts Otti for allegedly abandoning ENASCO and obstructing its operations. Furthermore, Ememanka alleges that Otti’s administration has deliberately marginalized projects associated with Ikpeazu, portraying Otti as hostile towards his predecessor.
However, Otti’s camp swiftly responded, dismissing the accusations as baseless and manipulative. Ferdinand Ekeoma, Otti’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, refuted Ememanka’s claims, asserting that Otti’s government has prioritized the development of Abia State and pursued justice for its citizens.
Ekeoma highlighted discrepancies in Ememanka’s assertions, challenging the credibility of Ikpeazu’s camp and urging them to provide evidence to support their claims. He emphasized Otti’s commitment to rebuilding Abia State and criticized Ikpeazu’s team for resorting to smear tactics.
Ekeoma further revealed that the said ENASCO does not belong to Abia State Government alone as Ememanka is trying to portray, but that the government owns only 27% with the remaining 73% shared amongst government officials within the Ikpeazu administration and 2 other external individuals.
The Otti’s led administration has promised to do further investigation into the project maybe to unravel the true owners, profits made by the company over the years and other administrative matters.
The exchange underscores growing tensions between the two political factions and sets the stage for a contentious political showdown in Abia State.
Support Afnews Independent Journalism
At Afnews, we are dedicated to providing accurate, insightful, and timely news coverage. Our commitment to journalistic integrity ensures that you receive trustworthy information, unfiltered and unbiased. To maintain our independence and continue delivering quality content, we rely on the support of our readers.
If you value the work we do, please consider making a contribution. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the stories that matter.
Donate today and help us keep independent journalism alive. Thank you for your support!
