Former Abia governors Theodore Orji and Okezie Ikpeazu are publicly clashing over the state's condition during their respective administrations. Ikpeazu claimed he inherited a gloomy state, prompting Orji to accuse him of hypocrisy and blame-shifting. Their exchange has stirred political debate in the lead-up to Nigeria’s 2027 elections.
In a sharp exchange that’s reigniting political debate in Abia State, former Governor Theodore Orji has responded sternly to recent remarks made by his successor, Okezie Ikpeazu, who claimed he inherited a state in disrepair.
Ikpeazu, who led Abia from 2015 to 2023, recently stated that the state was in a "gloomy" condition when he assumed office. He also described political leaders who blame their predecessors as "lazy."
This double-edged comment didn’t sit well with Orji, who governed the southeastern state between 2007 and 2015. Speaking through his media aide, Ifeanyi Umere, Orji said he was surprised by Ikpeazu's contradiction—criticizing his predecessor while condemning others for doing the same.
“He should carry his cross,” Orji's statement read. “Instead of making careless statements, he should accept full responsibility for the decisions he made while in office.”
The clash reflects growing tension within the political elite of Abia, where questions about legacy, accountability, and infrastructure development continue to shape public discourse. Analysts suggest this war of words could deepen divisions ahead of the next election cycle, where former governors often play influential roles.
Meanwhile, residents have reacted with mixed feelings—some defending Orji’s record, others calling for all former leaders to focus more on action than blame games.
