A fierce verbal battle has erupted in Abia State following the commissioning of Geometric Power in Osisioma by President Bola Tinubu.
The media space in the state is ablaze with exchanges between loyalists of former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and those of current Governor Alex Otti, centered around an alleged 5% stake in Geometrics Power.
Loyalists of former Governor Ikpeazu, including John Okiyi Kalu, Onyebuchi Ememanka, Enyinnaya Appolos, Chinonye Mba, and Don Ubani, claim that Ikpeazu’s administration acquired a 5% stake worth $5m in Geometrics, with a substantial payment already made. They criticize the present government for not acknowledging this investment and challenge them to confirm its existence.
The Ikpeazu camp asserts that the investment was made with public funds and demands its recognition and protection. They also question the Otti administration’s decision-making, alleging the duplication of road contracts and calling for an investigation into the Geometric investment.
However, media aides to Governor Alex Otti dismiss the reported investment, stating that no documents regarding such transactions were handed over by the Ikpeazu administration. Special Adviser Ferdinand Ekeoma refutes the claims, accusing Ikpeazu’s team of orchestrating attacks against the present government and engaging in propaganda.
Governor Otti, addressing the issue, acknowledges Ikpeazu’s involvement in negotiating a loan for Geometric but denies any documentation regarding the 5% investment. He has instructed his finance officials to investigate the matter further, emphasizing that Geometric is better positioned to clarify the situation.
As the verbal sparring continues, tensions escalate in Abia State, highlighting the complexities and controversies surrounding political transitions and investments in crucial infrastructure projects.
