The Abia State Government has announced plans to convert the proposed new Government House at Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, into a five-star hotel.
This was revealed on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, during a press tour of the site. Kanu also disclosed that a new Governor’s Office and Lodge will be constructed at the current Government House Complex.
Responding to long-standing claims that the current Government House is a rented property, Kanu stated:
“Let me debunk another lie. The current Government House was never rented. It was properly acquired by the state government. However, past officials falsely claimed it was rented and used that excuse to pay themselves rent from public funds.”
He criticized the uncompleted Government House project commissioned by the previous administration, describing it as unfit for residential use.
“This place is inhabitable. There are no wardrobes, no proper fittings—just empty halls,” Kanu said. “Clearly, this structure was never intended for someone to live in. It’s baffling what the designers had in mind.”
According to him, only the first floor appears somewhat finished, while the remaining levels are incomplete.
“There is no elevator, and large sections remain unplastered. The building poses serious safety hazards. One misstep and someone could fall through the structure,” he warned.
Kanu also accused former commissioner John Okiyi Kalu of spreading misinformation.
“When Governor Alex Otti spoke about this building, John Okiyi went on Arise TV and, as usual, peddled lies. That’s why we brought members of the press here—to see the truth firsthand,” he explained.
He said the previous administration rushed the project for public show without proper planning or utility.
“Yes, you might see a few pieces of furniture, but beyond that, there’s nothing. The building is a waste of public resources—it’s not functional or safe.”
Kanu added that the building’s location—surrounded by other structures—makes it a security concern and unsuitable for a Government House.
He urged Abians to disregard opposition rhetoric and continue supporting Governor Alex Otti, saying:
“Otti is a responsible leader who will not tolerate waste or misuse of state resources.”