Prince Paul Ikonne, an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Abia State, has accused Governor Alex Otti of flouting directives from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Supreme Court regarding local government autonomy.

Speaking on Television Continental (TVC), Ikonne alleged that Governor Otti is attempting to amend state laws to allow him continued control over local government funds, undermining the constitutionally mandated autonomy of local councils.

“Local governments are meant to be closer to the people, addressing the needs of farmers, the less privileged, widows, and persons with disabilities. But in Abia State, the governor is trying to create laws that let him use local government funds at will,” Ikonne said.

He contrasted Abia with Lagos and Enugu States, where local governments are actively implementing projects such as building schools, health centers, and other community infrastructures. “In Lagos State, local governments have elected chairmen and councillors who execute projects. But in Abia State, this is not happening,” he added.

Ikonne also highlighted the financial mismanagement in Abia, noting that local governments receive billions monthly, yet citizens do not benefit adequately from these funds. “Abia State has 17 local governments receiving 7–8 billion naira monthly. Yet, the local government chairman gets only 8 million naira. Facilities and projects that could cushion hardship are not realized,” he explained.

The APC leader commended President Tinubu for pushing for compliance, stressing that governors ignoring the Supreme Court judgment on LG autonomy are undermining constitutional governance. He challenged the Alex Otti-led administration to transparently account for the use of local government funds in the state, adding that the Labour Party government in Abia has failed to set a positive example.