Calls are mounting for Nigeria’s Abia State Governor Alex Otti to provide transparency over a disputed N54 billion (approximately $38.6 million) budget allocation earmarked for public school renovations in 2024, following allegations of financial mismanagement tied to education funds. The demand was issued by Barrister Eze Chikamnayo, a public analyst and leader of the Abia’s Best Interest Association, who accused the state government of failing to improve school infrastructure despite significant spending.
In a statement released Tuesday, Chikamnayo cited reports that the Abia State Ministry of Education, led by Commissioner Dr. Uche Eme, withdrew N14 billion (about $10 million) in 2023 for school renovations. However, visits to multiple local government areas revealed “deplorable” conditions in public schools, with no visible improvements to facilities. “The future of our children is at stake,” Chikamnayo asserted, condemning what he called “inflated or questionable expenditure” in the state’s budget.
He further highlighted concerns over allocations listed in government reports for projects allegedly lacking tangible outcomes. These include N7.28 billion ($5.2 million) for “Research & Development,” N6.5 billion ($4.6 million) for “Construction of Recreational Facilities,” and N4 billion ($2.9 million) for “Improvement of Agric Seedlings.” Other line items—N3 billion ($2.1 million) for “Capacity Building,” N18 billion ($12.9 million) for security, and over N300 billion ($214 million) for local government allocations—were also flagged as lacking clarity or visible implementation.
Chikamnayo tied the scrutiny to broader financial shifts under President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, which he said have increased federal allocations to states. “Abia has received over 1 trillion naira [about $714 million] through these policies,” he stated, urging citizens to “wake up and ask questions” about fiscal accountability.
The Abia State government has not yet publicly addressed the allegations. Governor Otti, who took office in May 2023 amid promises to prioritize education and infrastructure, faces growing pressure to reconcile these claims with his administration’s stated commitments.
The controversy underscores persistent tensions in Nigeria over public sector accountability, particularly in regions grappling with underfunded schools and uneven development. In Abia, where decaying classrooms and overcrowded facilities remain widespread, residents are increasingly vocal about demanding proof that allocated funds translate to measurable progress.
As debates over governance and transparency intensify, stakeholders await an official response from the Otti administration, with civil society groups vowing to sustain pressure for answers.
