The Abia State Government has announced plans to convert the newly built Government House at Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, into a five-star hotel, describing the structure as unfit and unsafe for official use.
This decision was disclosed by the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, during a press tour of the facility on Wednesday. The building, commissioned by the previous administration, was described as incomplete, lacking essential features, and a potential security risk.
According to Kanu, Governor Alex Otti’s administration found the structure unsuitable for use as a Government House and has resolved to construct a new, functional government facility on the site of the former official residence.
“This place appears uninhabitable,” Kanu told journalists. “There are no wardrobes, no elevators, and large parts of the building remain unfinished. Anyone walking through could fall through some sections. It’s a dangerous place.”
He accused the former government of rushing the construction to mislead the public into believing a functional building had been completed.
“They used state funds to put up a massive, yet hollow structure that does not meet any acceptable standard. From what we’ve seen, it was never intended to serve as a proper residence,” he said.
Kanu also addressed claims by former Information Commissioner John Okiyi Kalu, who had defended the project on national television. He dismissed those remarks as false and urged journalists to verify the condition of the building themselves.
“The press can see it firsthand. This is not a Government House, it’s just a shell with furniture and no real facilities,” Kanu added.
He further clarified that the previous Government House was not a rented property, contrary to previous reports. “It was acquired by the state, but the former government paid itself rent from public funds,” he alleged.
The Commissioner said Governor Otti’s decision to repurpose the building into a hotel is aimed at preventing waste and ensuring that public resources are put to good use.
“We’re committed to transparency and accountability. The people deserve to know the truth, and we won’t hide anything,” Kanu concluded.
