The Ebonyi State Government has dismissed reports claiming that it set aside N16 billion in the 2026 budget for the operation of its Abuja Liaison Office.
The government described the allegation as false and misleading, insisting that the amount in question is not intended for the day-to-day running of the office, as claimed by some quarters.
In a statement issued by the Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Leo Ekene-Oketa, the government said the claim was circulated by Chika Nwoba and does not reflect the true purpose of the budget provision.
According to the statement, Ebonyi State owns a property in Abuja’s Central Business District where a 12-storey building once stood.
The building was demolished by the state government in 2016, leaving the site available for future development.
The government explained that the ₦16 billion allocation captured in the 2026 budget was approved for the development and redevelopment of the state-owned property.
It said the project aims to create value for the people of Ebonyi State. The funds should not be mistaken for funds meant for office administration.
N77 Million is the Actual Operational Cost
It further stated that the actual cost of running the Abuja Liaison Office remains far below the figure being circulated.
The government noted that personnel and operational expenses for the office are estimated at about ₦77 million. This figure is consistent and is in line with amounts spent over the years.
The administration maintained that Governor Francis Nwifuru remains focused on accountability. He enshrouds the careful use of public resources and the continued delivery of infrastructure projects across the state.
The government also called on residents and the public to disregard what it described as inaccurate information about the budget.
It advised citizens to rely on official government communications when seeking information about state finances, projects, and policy decisions.
According to the statement, the ₦16 billion provision is tied solely to the redevelopment of the property in Abuja. It wasn’t set aside for the operation of the liaison office, as alleged.
