Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has accused his predecessor, Okezie Ikpeazu, of trying to avoid investigation by seeking a court order to stop the Judiciary Panel on the Recovery of Government Properties and Funds belonging to Abia State from carrying out its duties. According to Governor Otti, Ikpeazu has made multiple attempts to obtain a court order in Abuja to halt the panel’s investigation but has been unsuccessful.
On two occasions, Ikpeazu reportedly approached the Federal High Court in Abuja for an ex parte order to restrain the Judicial Panel from conducting its work. However, the court rejected both attempts because Ikpeazu failed to put the state government on notice as directed by the courts.
In response to the failed attempts, Ikpeazu quickly withdrew the suits but is allegedly still trying to find another court that might grant him the order to stop the probe. Governor Otti vowed to recover any stolen funds from the state and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Ikpeazu’s alleged attempts to avoid the investigation have raised concerns about transparency and accountability in the governance of Abia State. Governor Otti remains committed to ensuring a thorough investigation and recovery of government assets and funds that may have been misused during his predecessor’s tenure.
