Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has clarified the circumstances surrounding the sealing of the Renewed Hope Agenda office in Umuahia.
He explained that the action was not politically motivated, contrary to claims by opposition figures, but part of a “blanket enforcement of court orders” carried out by the state’s Harmonised Task Force.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, the Governor said he directed the immediate unsealing of the property after the matter was brought to his attention by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu.
“The unsealing was promptly executed pending the regularisation of the building’s documentation,” Otti stated.
He cautioned against attributing political motives to the activities of the Harmonised Task Force, insisting that the action had no political undertones.
“This enforcement was not politically motivated; rather, it was part of a general exercise targeting properties in default of statutory obligations,” the statement said.
Giving further details, the statement noted that ground rent on the property had been owed since 1982, with the lease set to expire on December 31, 2025. It added that the property owner failed to respond to demand notices requesting proof of compliance with payment of ground rent and associated charges.
A court order for the sealing of the property was obtained after evidence of service of the demand notices was presented.
According to the statement, the enforcement exercise, which began in August 2025, targeted 83 properties in Umuahia and 91 in Aba, with a significant number of affected owners already complying with the court directives.
It added that churches, hospitals, and schools were exempted from sealing due to the essential social services they provide.
The statement also cited several instances where responsive actions were taken, including the unsealing of a property belonging to the Sam Mbakwe family, a radio station, and another property used by a government agency.
It further noted that strict instructions had been issued to the Harmonised Task Force to ensure enforcement was carried out without compromise.
“However, the unsealing of No. 36 Ojike Lane reflects the government’s responsiveness to emerging issues. While enforcement remains uncompromised, sensitive matters will receive greater oversight to ensure fairness and political balance,” the statement concluded.
