New Government House poses security threat to Otti, set to be converted into hotel – Commissioner
The Abia State Government has announced plans to convert the newly commissioned Government House into a five-star hotel, citing major security concerns and inadequate facilities.
The Government House, inaugurated by the previous administration just a day before handing over power, was built within a private residential area, which the state government claims exposes Governor Alex Otti to significant security risks.
Abia State’s Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, made this known on Thursday during a media tour of the building. Kanu pointed out that the structure lacked essential facilities, including a functional elevator, and noted that the upper floors were left in disrepair, with many structural defects despite the substantial public funds invested in the project.
He explained that only the first floor of the Government House was completed and furnished, while the upper levels remained largely unfinished and structurally compromised.
Kanu also refuted claims made by the former Commissioner for Information, John Okiyi Kalu, who accused Governor Otti of spreading propaganda against the administration of his predecessor, Okezie Ikpeazu.
“This place is not habitable, and if you look around, you will see many private buildings surrounding it, looking directly into the premises,” Kanu said. “From a security standpoint, it is not ideal for the Governor to live here. It could pose serious risks if he were to reside in this environment. That is why the current administration has decided to transform it into a five-star hotel. The simple reason is that this place was not properly constructed.”
Kanu urged the public to disregard reports claiming that the Government House was completed, insisting that the structure was neither secure nor fit for habitation.
