The Abia State government has announced plans to convert the controversial Government House commissioned by the previous administration into a five-star hotel, citing safety concerns and structural defects.
Speaking to journalists during an inspection tour, the state’s Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, revealed that the edifice, inaugurated just a day before the last administration left office, lacked basic amenities and posed serious security risks due to its location in a residential area.
Kanu criticised the building’s design, noting that only the first floor was completed and furnished, while the upper floors were not only unfinished but also riddled with structural issues.
He emphasised that despite the significant amount of public funds expended, essential features like a working elevator were missing.
He also refuted claims made by former Information Commissioner, John Okiyi Kalu, who accused Governor Alex Otti’s administration of spreading false narratives about former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu’s government. Kanu insisted the structure is unfit for use as an official residence.
“This place cannot serve as a suitable residence for a sitting governor due to security vulnerabilities.
“Turning it into a hotel is the most practical decision,” Kanu explained, urging the public to disregard claims that the building was fully completed.