The Abia State Government has announced plans to convert the controversial Government House built by the Okezie Ikpeazu administration at Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, into a five-star hotel, citing its p++r condition and unsuitability for official use.
Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, who toured the building, described it as incomplete, unsafe, and lacking basic features like wardrobes or an elevator. “This structure was never intended to be a residence,” he said. “Only the first floor appears finished. The rest is just empty, unplastered halls. Some parts are dang£rous—you could fall through.”
He said Governor Alex Otti’s administration has begun plans to build a proper Government House on the site of the old official residence. “Governor Otti is a responsible leader. He won’t let resources go to waste,” Kanu added.
Meanwhile, the state has also taken full control of the long-abandoned Aba Mega Mall, located in Osisioma LGA. The multimillion-dollar facility had been dormant for nearly a decade. During a religious crusade held on the premises, Governor Otti announced that all outstanding claims were settled peacefully.
“We didn’t use force. We called everyone, asked how much they were owed, paid them—including their bankers,” Otti said. “Now, this place belongs fully to Abia State Government.”
The Governor assured that the mall, sitting on a vast piece of land, will soon be repurposed for commercial use, boosting the state’s economy and reclaiming lost investments.
“We’re breathing life into a wasted asset. In a few months, everyone will see the transformation,” he said.
