Abia State Governor Alex Otti has dismissed threats by three former governors to sue him for operating state functions from his private residence, insisting he has not violated the Nigerian Constitution and that the Government House he inherited remains in poor condition.
Speaking during his monthly media chat with journalists on Thursday, January 29, 2026, Otti addressed the controversy head-on, explaining that he continues to work from his residence in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area due to the dilapidated state of the official Government House facility when he assumed office.
“Somebody said he will sue me for not operating from his house in Umuahia; well, I am waiting for the suit. My Lawyers are prepared,” Otti declared.
He further challenged the legal basis of any such action, “I have looked at the constitution and I didn’t see where there is a provision that I must operate from a place.”
Otti emphasized that reconstruction of the Government House is actively underway, but stressed that Abia residents prioritize effective governance over his physical location.
He assured the people that his administration remains undeterred by what he called “noise” from critics, vowing continued progress on key projects in roads, education, health, and electricity across the state.
The governor also urged citizens to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities or persons to security agencies promptly.
The former governors’ threat stems from Otti’s decision to run state affairs from his personal home rather than the official seat in Umuahia, a move that has sparked debate since his inauguration.
Otti maintains that delivering good governance outweighs symbolic adherence to location.
