In a recent media briefing, Abia State Governor Alex Otti disclosed plans to prosecute pension fraud suspects and ensure accurate minimum wage payments. Updates on healthcare centers and debt reduction efforts highlight the administration’s focus on transparency.
Umuahia, Abia State – The Abia State Government, under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti, has announced its decision to prosecute civil servants implicated in a pension fraud scheme, demonstrating its commitment to curbing corruption and maintaining transparency in governance. Speaking at the monthly media briefing tagged “Dr. Alex Otti Speaks to Abians,” Governor Otti emphasized his administration’s zero tolerance for corruption, asserting that those involved in the scandal would face legal consequences.
Governor Otti highlighted that the arrests were made following compelling evidence of fraudulent activity in the pension system. “We continued with our efforts to sanitize the civil service. I’m sure you would have heard some reports about civil servants who were involved in pension fraud,” he said. “We are continuing with their prosecution. I have authorized that, in the next few days, they [pension fraud suspects] should be arraigned before the court to explain how they were stealing from the state.”
The Governor revealed that the fraud ring includes approximately 10 to 11 individuals, some of whom reside abroad. He stated that efforts are underway to repatriate those suspects from abroad so they can answer to the charges. “We are going to repatriate them to face the state for their actions,” he asserted.
In response to opposition members reportedly criticizing the arrests, Governor Otti reaffirmed that the government would not yield to public pressure. “No matter who is involved, people who defend thieves should be perceived and treated like thieves. We are issuing a warning—there is a limit to opposition,” he added, urging accountability across the board.
Governor Otti also addressed issues in the recent implementation of the minimum wage, directing the State’s Accountant-General and Finance Commissioner to correct reported errors in salary payments. “We received some reports of computational issues, and I have directed the Accountant-General and the Commissioner for Finance to review and correct these errors,” he said, ensuring that complaints would be promptly addressed.
Other Key Developments Announced in the Briefing
Primary Healthcare Centers: The Governor confirmed that work would soon begin on the construction of 200 primary healthcare centers across the state, with additional centers planned to ensure healthcare accessibility. “By the time we’re done with the first 200, we’ll move to another 200,” he explained, highlighting his administration’s commitment to enhancing healthcare for all residents.
Electric Vehicle Initiative: In response to the fuel subsidy removal, Governor Otti shared plans to introduce electric vehicle buses for intra- and inter-city transport. Discussions on this initiative have reached an advanced stage, aiming to provide affordable and sustainable transit options for Abians.
Debt Reduction and Financial Stewardship: Governor Otti reported that his administration has successfully reduced Abia’s inherited debt by nearly ₦90 billion from the ₦191 billion passed down from the previous administration. “We’ve not borrowed a kobo,” he affirmed, stressing that funds are being channeled to improve infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security.
The Governor concluded by calling on Abians to continue supporting the administration’s reforms and efforts to secure a brighter future for all.
