former Abia governors,
The All Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Abia State chapter, has dismissed claims that funds meant for local government areas in the state are being misappropriated.
Speaking to reporters on Friday after a meeting in Umuahia, ALGON chairman and Isuikwuato LGA Mayor, Chinedu Ekeke, clarified that the state government manages and distributes the allocations.
“We are not aware of any hijacking of funds. The government handles the sharing of our allocations,” he said.
Ekeke explained that funds from the federal government have not been directly reaching local governments, noting that allocations are managed through the JAAC accounts.
“The local governments are properly funded from the JAAC accounts, and the 17 LGA Mayors are performing their duties effectively,” he added.
On the Supreme Court’s ruling regarding local government autonomy, Ekeke said the federal government is still evaluating how to implement it.
He emphasized strong collaboration between the state and local governments, praising the leadership of Governor Dr. Alex Otti for supporting the LGAs financially.
ALGON further condemned recent political statements by former governors and their allies, describing them as attempts to undermine the state’s progress.
The association highlighted Otti’s achievements, including infrastructure development, healthcare and educational improvements, prompt payment of salaries and pensions, and prudent financial management.
The association concluded by stressing that in a democratic system, leadership should be assessed based on performance and the electorate’s choice, not on “declarations, pronouncements, or political theatrics,” and reaffirmed its confidence in Governor Otti.
