Victor EzejaThe Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD) has called on the immediate past governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, to come clean on the alleged diversion of N10 billion meant for building an airport in the state into 32 undisclosed bank accounts.
The group said the funds originally slated for building an airport, are crucial for the advancement and infrastructure enhancement of the state, and shouldn’t be swept under the carpet.
The group in a statement signed by its secretary general, Dr Uzor Ngoladi, said that given the nature of the allegation and the potential consequences on the people of Abia State, it is imperative that the former governor addresses it promptly and provide a credible explanation regarding the purported diversion of funds into different bank accounts.
Prime Business Africa recalls that Otti recently claimed that an audit report conducted by his administration about the activities of his predecessor revealed that about N10 billion earmarked for Abia airport construction is missing as the project was not done. Another report emerged alleging that the funds were diverted into 32 undisclosed bank accounts by ex-Governor Ikpeazu.
FOSAD said that as a group dedicated to upholding integrity and accountability within the southeast region, it could not ignore such serious accusations and therefore demanded full transparency and accountability from Ikpeazu on the matter.
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The statement read in part: “The funds in question, earmarked for the construction of an airport, are crucial for the advancement and infrastructure enhancement of Abia State. Any misuse or misappropriation of these funds not only undermines the citizens’ trust but also jeopardizes the progress and development initiatives for which they were intended.
“Given the enormity of these allegations and the potential consequences for the people of Abia State, we, the Forum of South-East Academic Doctors, demand full transparency and accountability from Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu.
“It is imperative that he addresses these allegations promptly and provides clear and verifiable explanations regarding the purported diversion of funds into multiple bank accounts.
“We urge Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu to cooperate fully with relevant authorities and investigative bodies to ensure a thorough and impartial inquiry into these allegations. The people of Abia State deserve answers, and it is essential for the preservation of public trust and the integrity of our democratic institutions that these matters are resolved transparently and expeditiously.”
The Forum of Southeast Academic Doctors further called on stakeholders including government officials, civil society organizations, and the media to monitor the situation closely and hold all implicated parties accountable for their actions.
“Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of good governance, and we must uphold these principles to safeguard the interests of the people we serve.
“As members of the academic and professional community in the South-East region, we remain committed to advocating transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. We will continue to monitor developments closely and stand firm in our pursuit of justice and integrity within our society,” the statement added.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
