Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people, is issuing this press release to address the recent allegations circulating in various media outlets regarding the alleged 40 billion naira expenditure by Former Abia Governor Okezie Ikpeazu on a canceled Abia Airport Project.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo categorically states that these allegations are baseless and serve as a tool for deceit orchestrated by fifth columnists and merchants of fake news, to mislead the unsuspecting general public.
It is important to clarify that there was never a time from 2015 to 2023 when the then Abia State Government, under the leadership of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, spent 40 billion naira on any airport project. During that period, the Ikpeazu administration earmarked 10 billion nairas for the commencement of a proposed Abia Airport project. However, a few days after the announcement, Traditional Rulers in Abia State, led by their then Chairman, His Royal Majesty Eze Joseph Nwabakee, along with prominent Igbo Elders and Ohanaeze Ndigbo leaders, visited the former Governor in Umuahia Government House.
During the visit, the Traditional Rulers and Igbo Elders strongly advised the administration to prioritize the development of socio-economically important roads, such as Faulks Road in Aba leading to Ariaria International Market, and other roads across Abia State. Recognizing the wisdom and public interest in this advice, the former Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, promptly canceled the proposed Airport Project and redirected the allocated funds toward the delivery of 260 roads under his watch as Governor.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, through its Secretary General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, unequivocally clears Former Abia Governor Okezie Ikpeazu from the allegations of misappropriating 40 billion naira on the Abia Airport Project. The decision to prioritize essential infrastructure projects in Abia State, as advised by the Traditional Rulers and Igbo Elders, demonstrates the former Governor’s commitment to the socio-economic development and welfare of the people.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls on the general public to be wary of false narratives and malicious attempts to tarnish the image of Igbo leaders. We urge everyone to verify information from credible sources before accepting or propagating them. It is crucial to promote transparency, accountability, and responsible journalism for the collective progress of our society.
