Abia Lawmaker Ucheonye Akachukwu Denies Viral Report of Beer Bottle Attack by Majority Leader
A member of the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Ucheonye Stephen Akachukwu, has dismissed a viral report alleging that the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Uchenna Okoro Kalu, broke his head with a beer bottle during a fight over money.
The controversial story, which has been circulating across social media platforms, claimed that the lawmakers clashed over a supposed cash gift allegedly given by the Abia State Government as appreciation for the passage of the 2025 Supplementary Budget.
However, Hon. Akachukwu, who represents Aba Central State Constituency and chairs the House Committee on Appropriation, has strongly denied the allegation, describing it as fake, malicious, and misleading.
In a statement personally signed by him, Akachukwu said:
“My attention has been drawn to a mischievous and malicious report circulating on social media with the sensational headline: ‘Abia Assembly Majority Leader Smashes Beer Bottle on Colleague’s Head During Fight Over Governor Otti’s Cash Gift.’
The publication is false, ridiculous, and completely unfounded. At no time did such an incident occur between myself and my colleague, Hon. Uchenna Okoro Kalu.”
He further urged the public to disregard the story, describing it as the handiwork of desperate mischief-makers bent on sowing discord among members of the Abia State House of Assembly.
“There was no altercation — verbal or physical — between me and the Majority Leader. Those spreading this falsehood only seek to tarnish our image and mislead the public,” he added.
Akachukwu also called on media practitioners and online platforms to uphold truth and professionalism, emphasizing that spreading unverified claims can erode public trust and create unnecessary political tension.
Why This Matters
This development sheds light on the growing problem of fake news and misinformation in Nigeria’s political landscape. Unverified reports like this can easily damage reputations, create public distrust, and destabilize governance, especially in sensitive state institutions such as the Abia State House of Assembly.
By quickly addressing the rumor, Hon. Akachukwu has helped prevent the escalation of political tension and ensured that the public is correctly informed.
It also serves as an important reminder that responsible journalism and fact-checking are vital in today’s digital age — especially when social media plays such a powerful role in shaping public opinion.
