Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has addressed public concerns surrounding the recent sealing of the Renewed Hope Agenda office located on Ojike Street, Umuahia, stressing that the action was not politically motivated. The governor’s clarification comes amid misinterpretations by opposition members who claimed the move was politically charged.
According to Governor Otti, the property was sealed by the state’s Harmonised Task Force as part of a broader enforcement of court orders. The Governor, through his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Ukoha, confirmed that following the intervention of Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, he had directed that the office be promptly unsealed, pending the proper regularisation of the building’s documentation.
Otti emphasized that the action of the Harmonised Task Force should not be seen as targeting any political group or individual. “This enforcement was not politically motivated; rather, it was part of a general exercise targeting properties in default of statutory obligations,” the statement read.
The official statement provided further context, revealing that the property had owed ground rent since 1982, with the lease due to expire on December 31, 2025. Despite multiple demand notices requesting proof of compliance with payment of ground rent and other charges, the property owner failed to respond, prompting the court-ordered sealing.
The enforcement initiative, which began in August 2025, targeted a total of 174 properties—83 in Umuahia and 91 in Aba. A considerable number of property owners have since complied with the court directives. It was also noted that institutions providing essential social services, such as churches, hospitals, and schools, are exempt from such enforcement actions.
Governor Otti’s statement highlighted examples of responsive government actions, including the unsealing of properties owned by the Sam Mbakwe family, a radio station, and a government agency, demonstrating that the government remains attentive to emerging issues while maintaining fair enforcement.
Finally, the statement confirmed that strict instructions have been issued to the Harmonised Task Force to ensure that enforcement continues without compromise. “While enforcement remains uncompromised, sensitive matters will receive greater oversight to ensure fairness and political balance,” it concluded.