The Abia State Government has announced plans to build a brand new Government House while converting the already existing one situated at Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, into a five-star hotel.
The Commissioner for Information, Mr. Okey Kanu, made this known during a press tour of the site on Wednesday. The government’s decision comes after a thorough inspection of the building revealed what officials described as serious structural and design flaws.
According to Kanu, the building—commissioned by the immediate past administration—was not only incomplete but also unsuitable for official or residential use. Rather than allow the expensive edifice to waste away, the state has decided to repurpose it into a luxury hotel that can generate revenue.
“This place is not fit for any governor to live in. There are no wardrobes, unfinished walls, and only one floor looks even close to being done. The rest is just hollow halls and unsafe corners,” Kanu told journalists during the tour.
The government’s plan marks a major shift in how state projects are being handled. While the previous administration claimed to have completed a modern Government House, the current government believes what exists is merely a shell, hurriedly put up without real functionality.
“The truth is, this building was rushed just to make it look like something was done. But when you look inside, it’s clear it was never ready for use,” Kanu said.
Governor Alex Otti, known for his emphasis on transparency and accountability, has now directed that a fresh and befitting Government House be built on the site of the former official residence—one that meets modern standards of safety, comfort, and function.
More than just raising concerns about the structure, the Information Commissioner also addressed lingering public confusion. He clarified that the old Government House used by past administrations was not a rented apartment, as previously claimed, but a state-owned property. However, he alleged that officials in the last government paid themselves rent from public funds while misleading the people.
Kanu described the Ogurube Layout location as a poor choice for a seat of power, especially given the surrounding structures that pose potential security risks. “It’s not just about the building’s poor design; the location itself is not ideal for a Government House,” he said.
He also responded to recent claims made by former Commissioner for Information, John Okiyi Kalu, calling them untrue. “Everything he said was false. That’s why I invited the media to see things for themselves,” Kanu explained.
