The Abia State Government has clarified reports alleging that ₦210 million was allocated for a photocopier in the state’s 2026 budget.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Ministry of Budget and Planning explained that budget documents reflect estimates and spending intentions, which do not automatically translate to actual fund disbursement. The ministry noted that the 2026 budget was officially published on January 31, 2026, to promote transparency and public access.
According to the ministry, ₦210,831,142 is correctly earmarked for the rehabilitation and repair of residential buildings and staff quarters at the Lagos Liaison Office, while ₦12,000,000 is allocated for the procurement of one Sharp photocopier and other office equipment.
The ministry acknowledged a technical error on page 289 of the document, where misaligned text and figures created the incorrect impression that ₦250 million was budgeted for a photocopier. The figure actually pertains to a separate capital project.
The statement emphasized that the error was clerical and presentational, and that all procurements undergo statutory approval processes, including scrutiny by relevant boards and final certification by the State Executive Council.
“We categorically state that there has been no inflation of the cost for the procurement of a photocopier. The error was purely clerical and presentational,” the ministry said, adding that the relevant agency has been notified of the correction.
The government expressed regret for the confusion and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, fiscal discipline, and accountability in managing public funds.
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