Governor Alex Otti has revealed that the Abia State Government has recovered several lands, official vehicles, and other public assets allegedly taken over illegally by former government officials and politically connected individuals.
Speaking during the May edition of his monthly media briefing in Umuahia on Friday, Otti said his administration has intensified efforts to reclaim state properties that were allegedly diverted for private use under previous governments.
According to the governor, many of the recovered vehicles have not been sold or auctioned but were instead returned to various ministries, departments, and agencies for government operations.
He explained that the recovered assets are now being reused to improve public service delivery across the state.
Otti also disclosed that his administration identified individuals who allegedly benefited unlawfully from government resources and has taken steps to block further access to state funds and properties.
The governor said some of the affected former officials have already taken legal action against the government over the recovery exercise.
“We have successfully recovered many government assets, especially lands that were allegedly acquired illegally. Some of those involved have gone to court, and we are ready to defend our actions legally,” he stated.
Governor Otti further alleged that some individuals frustrated by the government’s crackdown on misuse of public funds have now resorted to spiritual practices and public libation ceremonies against him.
According to him, such actions are driven by anger from people who can no longer benefit from state resources as they allegedly did in the past.
“When some people start complaining or performing rituals against you, it simply shows that their access to public funds has been cut off,” the governor said.
He maintained that his administration remains committed to protecting government assets, promoting transparency, and ensuring that public resources are used for the benefit of the people rather than private interests.