Abia Finance Transparency Debate Intensifies Amid Allocation Concerns

A former finance commissioner in Abia State, Hon Obinna Oriaku, has called for transparency and accountability in the management of federal allocations and other revenues received by the state. In a statement, Oriaku urged Governor Alex Otti to disclose how the state’s monthly allocations from the Federation Account and Internally Generated Revenues (IGR) are being utilized.

This call comes after Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, emphasized the need for prudent management of federal resources to address critical infrastructure in Abia State. Kalu had stated that the state received N38 billion in excess of federal allocations and other accruals monthly during the second quarter of 2025, a claim disputed by Governor Otti, who insisted that the state’s monthly revenues stand at N15 billion.

Oriaku’s statement was in response to the recently published Abia Q3 2025 Financial Report, which he described as “suspicious” and “confusing.” The report indicates that Abia received a total revenue of 91 billion naira in Q3, a noticeable drop from the 114 billion recorded in Q2. Despite this, the state government continues to deny receiving an average of 38 billion naira monthly between April and June.

The former finance commissioner expressed disappointment at the inconsistencies in the report, highlighting that the state’s internally generated revenue increased from 13.3 billion to 18 billion naira during the same period. He also questioned the allocation of N14.4 billion to Land and Housing, urging the Governor to provide further clarifications.

Additionally, Oriaku faulted the claim that 82 billion naira has been spent on repairing public schools, stating that it does not align with the physical observations across the state. He also queried the N9.1 billion allocated to the Transport sector, seeking clarification on whether the fund was related to the electric bus project.

The call for transparency and accountability in Abia State’s financial management highlights the need for prudent use of public resources. As the state continues to receive significant allocations from the Federation Account and IGR, it is essential that the government provides clear and accurate information on how these funds are being utilized to address the state’s infrastructure and development needs.