Ikonne asked the governor to publish a list of all the schools where renovations have been done, together with the names, locations, and types of improvements completed, in a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by his chief press secretary, Ujo Justice.
The request follows data from the state’s 2024 budget performance report that showed more than ₦54 billion was spent on public school repairs and restoration in the final quarter of 2024.
The total amount captured for school renovation throughout the fiscal year was put at ₦58.3 billion.
During his monthly media chat over the weekend, Otti refuted reports of missing money, stating that actual spending was much less than the sums being circulated and that budgets are projections.
However, Ikonne insisted that releasing the list of refurbished schools would resolve the issue and ensure Abians that the money allotted was being used wisely.
He also welcomed the Freedom of Information request recently submitted by the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development, which is seeking a detailed breakdown of the schools renovated.
“In order for everyone to observe the advancements made in school infrastructure, Governor Otti ought to make the information accessible to Abians. Although budgets are estimates, Ikonne stated that spending should be supported by factual information.
Giving such information, he continued, would bolster the administration’s dedication to accountability, openness, and transparency in governance.
“Governor Otti ought to come out of his conceptual shell. Expenditures are facts, but budgets are guesses. The records unequivocally demonstrate that during October and December of 2024, ₦54 billion was reported as spent. Let him publish the schools if he contests this. There are no excuses from Abians. “We’re requesting proof,” Ikonne stated.
The APC chieftain concluded by urging the governor to prioritise truth over propaganda. He added, “The governor should realise that leadership is about accountability, not storytelling. He cannot claim to be the face of transparency while avoiding the simplest of questions: show us the schools.”
