The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Abia State has asked Gov Alex Otti to ensure transparency and accountability by showing evidence that he disbursed ₦90 billion to settle contract debts in the state.

The party insisted that they were unaware that such a debt existed.

They asserted that Otti’s claim lacked verifiable documentation and due process.

The PDP subsequently urged the governor to provide the names of the individuals and companies that have benefited from ₦90 billion transaction.

Speaking via a letter by the new state chairman of the party, Elder Abraham Amah, titled, ‘Open Letter to Governor Alex Otti,’ dated November 8, 2024, the PDP said, “The attention of Abia State PDP has been drawn to recent claims you made regarding the payment of N90 billion to contractors in our state, which you allege to be debts incurred by previous PDP-led administration in the state.

“To be clear, the Abia PDP is unaware of the existence of such a debt incurred by the immediate past PDP administration. It will serve the interests of Abians if you put out the records as proof of your claims.

“We must express our profound concern regarding your assertion that such a significant sum can be disbursed to settle debts which, by our understanding, lacks verifiable documentation and due process.

“This staggering amount warrants immediate scrutiny and we urge you to clarify how this figure was determined and the basis for these payments.

“In the spirit of transparency and accountability, it is vital that you disclose the names of the individuals and companies that have benefited from these financial transactions. The citizens of Abia State deserve to know who received these payments, as it will help foster public trust in your administration and its financial dealings.

“Moreover, the speculation surrounding these payments raises alarm bells among our constituents. With your administration allegedly enriching Signature Bank with an additional N90 billion, you must assure the public of the integrity and legitimacy of these transactions. Our people deserve to have confidence in their leaders, and without clear communication, such confidence is eroded.

“We also find it disheartening that despite previous assurances related to spending and project funding, the situation now appears inconsistent. We implore you to take immediate action to clarify these matters, thereby reinforcing the commitment to transparency that is essential for effective governance.”