The Abia State Government issued a statement addressing public concerns over a reported ₦210 million allocation for a photocopier in its upcoming 2026 budget. This clarification was prompted by widespread criticism and discussion in the media regarding the apparent excessiveness of that amount allocated for such equipment.

In its explanation, the state's Ministry of Budget and Planning emphasized that all budget documents are preliminary estimates that outline intended spending. They clarified that the figures do not automatically imply actual fund disbursements. The ministry confirmed that the 2026 budget was made public on January 31, 2026, as part of its commitment to transparency and accountability in government financial activities.

The ministry also stated that substantially more reasonable amounts are allocated for essential services and infrastructures, specifically pointing out that the actual financial resources for public facilities and rehabilitation efforts are listed accurately in the documentation. For example, a total of ₦210,831,142 was earmarked for the rehabilitation of residential buildings, along with a more practical ₦12 million set aside for a photocopier and associated items, helping to dispel the troubling perception created by the initial interpretation of the budget data.