Member representing Aba Central in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Ucheonye Stephen Akachukwu, has strongly denied reports making the rounds on social media that he was physically assaulted by the Majority Leader, Hon. Okoro Uchenna Kalu, during a supposed disagreement over a cash gift from Governor Alex Otti.
The lawmaker described the story as false, malicious, and a calculated attempt to mislead the public, damage the reputation of the Abia State House of Assembly, and create tension where none exists.
A viral social media report had alleged that a fight broke out among lawmakers over the sharing of a cash gift reportedly given by Governor Otti. The story sensationally claimed that during the altercation, the Majority Leader smashed a beer bottle on Hon. Ucheonye’s head.
In a statement personally signed and shared via social media on October 21, 2025, Hon. Ucheonye described the report as a fabrication by political mischief-makers.
“My attention has been drawn to a mischievous and malicious report circulating on social media with the sensational headline: ‘Abia Assembly Majority Leader Smashes Beer Bottle on Colleague’s Head During Fight Over Governor Otti’s Cash Gift.’
In the said report, I was falsely alleged to have been attacked by my brother and colleague, Hon. Uchenna Kalu. This allegation is not only ridiculous but completely unfounded,” he stated.
He highlighted that at no time did any altercation—verbal or physical—take place between him and the Majority Leader or any other member of the Assembly.
“There was no such incident,” he continued. “The 8th Abia State House of Assembly has been operating peacefully since inauguration. We enjoy mutual respect and unity of purpose. Our focus remains on delivering quality legislation and supporting Governor Otti’s people-oriented policies.”
Hon. Ucheonye went on to stress that there are no personal or political differences between him and Hon. Uchenna Kalu, noting that the Assembly remains united in its mission to improve the lives of Abians through effective lawmaking.
He described the report as a desperate attempt by faceless political detractors to destabilize the House, undermine its credibility, and shift attention away from the legislative progress being made.
“It is disappointing, though not surprising, that certain faceless individuals have resorted to such fabrications to destabilize the harmony we have built. Let it be known that such cheap propaganda will fail.”
He also warned those behind the publication to desist or face legal consequences, stating that he and other lawmakers would not tolerate falsehood and character assassination.
“Those behind this baseless story are hereby warned to desist from spreading falsehood or face the full weight of the law,” he added.
Hon. Ucheonye urged members of the public to disregard the report entirely, describing it as a distraction from the serious work lawmakers are doing in the state.
“I urge members of the public to disregard the said report in its entirety, as it holds no truth whatsoever. We remain focused and determined to justify the confidence the good people of Abia State have placed in us.”
He reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to peace, integrity, and good governance, highlighting that since the emergence of the 8th Assembly, lawmakers have worked together in peace to support the reforms of the Alex Otti-led administration.
The viral report suggesting a physical fight over a supposed cash gift from the governor is being seen by many observers as part of a larger trend of fake news targeting public institutions and political actors.
