Former Commissioner for Finance and Budget Planning in Abia State, Hon. Obinna Oriaku, has called for greater transparency in the management of federal allocations and internally generated revenues received by the state.

In an article published on Monday, Oriaku—who served under former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu—appealed to Governor Alex Otti to provide clearer information on how the state’s financial inflows are being utilised.

His remarks follow earlier comments by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, who had urged prudent management of resources and effective use of federal allocations to address infrastructure needs in the state. Kalu also referenced revenue figures during an engagement with stakeholders in Abia last month.

Governor Otti has since clarified that Abia’s monthly revenues stand at about ₦15 billion, differing from some estimates that have circulated publicly.

In his article titled “Abia’s Q3 2025 Financial Report: Unanswered Questions, Conflicting Figures and Rising Transparency Concerns,” Oriaku said that recent financial reports have led to questions among some residents regarding revenue figures and expenditure classifications. He noted that while the Q3 report indicated total revenue of ₦91 billion—compared to ₦114 billion in Q2—the period also coincided with higher national FAAC disbursements.

According to him, the variation in quarterly figures has prompted discussions about the state’s overall inflows and how they compare with national trends. Oriaku also said that some civic groups reviewing the reports had raised similar questions.

He further highlighted areas where he believes additional clarity would be helpful, including the breakdown of funds allocated to sectors such as Land and Housing, Education, and Transport. He said that explanations on the purpose and implementation status of certain projects would improve public understanding.

Specifically, Oriaku noted that allocations to housing initiatives, recreational facilities, and school rehabilitation would benefit from detailed updates on progress and beneficiaries, given the scale of the expenditure outlined in the report.

He also referenced questions raised by members of the public about the classification of some expenditure items over time, suggesting that more consistent categorisation would enhance confidence in the published reports.

On the transport sector, he said residents would appreciate updates on the state’s electric bus initiative, including the number of units procured and the cost implications.

Oriaku concluded by emphasising the importance of clear and verifiable financial disclosures. According to him, providing more detailed explanations on revenue and expenditure would help strengthen public trust and ensure that residents remain fully informed about the state’s financial management.