..Abana Insists Money Is in Bank, Blames Delay on Due Process
By Douglas Princemola
A mild tension is brewing among councillors across Imo State over the delay in the release of the ten million naira constituency project funds promised to each of the 305 INEC wards by Governor Hope Uzodimma.
The fund, totaling about 3.05 billion naira, was introduced to boost grassroots development in all 27 local government areas. Two months after councillors were asked to submit their bank details for payment, many claim they have yet to receive any funds, sparking anger and frustration among local representatives.
Some councillors who spoke anonymously to journalists in Owerri accused the state government of neglecting its promise. They said the delay has put them under pressure from their constituents who now believe the councillors have received the funds but failed to deliver community projects.
They lamented the poor condition of rural roads, markets, and public facilities across the state, especially with the festive season fast approaching. The councillors appealed to the governor to fulfill his pledge so they could begin grassroots rehabilitation projects and restore the confidence of their people.
Reacting to the complaints, the Chairman of the Imo State Councillors Forum and Leader of Legislative Council Leaders, Rt. Hon. Ibenjo Chigozie Abana of Njaba Ward, dismissed the allegations as misleading.
Abana explained that the money had already been deposited at the UBA Bank branch on Bank Road in Owerri, awaiting the submission of contractors bank details from each councillor for proper disbursement. He said the governor had done his part and that delays were caused by councillors who failed to complete the necessary documentation.
He stressed that councillors are lawmakers, not contractors, and therefore must follow due process before any payment can be made.
Abana cautioned against what he described as ungrateful attitudes and attempts to tarnish the image of the governor. He said Governor Uzodimma remains committed to improving rural infrastructure and the welfare of local communities through the Shared Prosperity agenda.
He added that the ten million naira per ward initiative is aimed at rehabilitating rural roads, markets, and schools across Imo State, warning that any councillor spreading misinformation would be identified and sanctioned.
The controversy has drawn public attention to the challenges facing local governance in Imo State. While councillors await the release of the funds, residents continue to call for transparency and faster action to ensure the governors grassroots development promise becomes a reality.
