Abia to repurpose former Government House into hotel
The Abia State Government has announced plans to convert the newly built Government House constructed by former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu into a luxury hotel, citing safety concerns and poor design.
Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed the decision during a media tour of the three-storey complex located in Ogurube Layout, describing the building as “uninhabitable” and “a security risk.” He revealed that the structure, hastily commissioned just 24 hours before Ikpeazu left office, lacked essential residential features such as wardrobes and proper room partitioning.
“It’s difficult to understand how this was ever intended to be a Government House,” Kanu said, pointing out that the interior consisted largely of empty halls. He noted that only the first floor appeared complete, while the remaining floors were unfinished and lacked critical safety installations like an elevator.
“There are areas where, if anyone missteps, they could fall through the floor. It’s simply dangerous,” Kanu added.
Governor Alex Otti has reportedly directed that a new Government House be constructed on the site of the old one, which the previous administration had claimed was rented. Kanu refuted this, stating that the property was properly acquired by the state and accused former officials of paying themselves rent under false pretenses.
As part of efforts to avoid waste, Governor Otti has approved the transformation of the existing complex into a five-star hotel, a move the Commissioner says will generate economic value for the state.
He urged citizens to support the administration’s vision and dismiss criticisms from opposition figures, emphasizing that the decision reflects prudent resource management and a commitment to genuine development.
