Aides to Governor Alex Otti and former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu are engaged in a war of words following claims by Prof. Barth Nnaji, Chairman/CEO of Geometric Power Ltd, that the Ikpeazu-led government failed to remit the state government’s five percent equity contribution to the company.
Mr. John Okiyi-Kalu, a former Commissioner in the Ikpeazu administration, defended his boss, stating that the government had approved $5 million as payment for the equity, and the state was expected to pay the naira equivalent. However, Special Adviser to Governor Otti on Media, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, countered the claims, stating that the Otti-led administration did not receive any document during the transition process indicating cash commitment to the Geometric Power project.
Ekeoma clarified that, according to the budget performance report, the state government transferred N1.42 billion to the bank account of Geometric, acknowledged by Prof Nnaji in a letter dated August 24, 2022.
In the letter, Nnaji appreciated Governor Ikpeazu’s efforts in supporting Geometric Power. Ekeoma urged Prof Nnaji to clarify his statement about not receiving the agreed equity contribution made by Abia State Government.
