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Abia State said the governor’s office did not disburse close to one billion naira on food and welfare in the third quarter as reported in some social media posts.
In a press statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Alex Otti, Kaji Uko, he explained that he spent a total of only N223,389,889.84 on meals and snacks during the period.
According to a press release, this figure includes spending from all ministries and agencies (MDAs), not just the governor’s office, which is included in social media reports.
The stated amount includes the cost of special events such as retreats, conferences, and related events. The Abia State Government has so far spent a total of N397,520,734.84 on welfare.
“Welfare spending is in line with the State Finance, Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability Program (SFTAS), a federal government initiative.
“Also note that welfare spending covers all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), not just the Governor’s Office as is incorrectly claimed. Welfare sector spending covers health, rehabilitation and public emergencies. We will address the issue of the situation,” the press statement said.
He added that Governor Otti will always maintain transparency in his administration.
The Abia State Government’s clarification came in the wake of widespread reports on social media that the governor’s office alone allegedly spent close to N1 billion on meals and snacks during the third quarter financial period.
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