Pension Fraud Crackdown and Abia’s Growth: Highlights from Governor Otti’s Monthly Media Chat

Governor Alex Otti disclosed a significant pension fraud scheme involving civil servants, committing to transparency and accountability. He also shared updates on infrastructure, health, and Abia’s growing foreign investment appeal.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, shared a comprehensive update on the state’s developments during his monthly media briefing, “Alex Otti Speaks to Abians.” Governor Otti celebrated Abia’s new position as the 3rd highest destination for foreign investment in Nigeria, a dramatic rise from the 27th position, achieved between June 2023 and June 2024.

Governor Otti detailed other advancements and priorities his administration has pursued across infrastructure, agriculture, health, governance, and local security. Here’s a breakdown of the key updates from the session:

Boost in Foreign Investment Governor Otti highlighted Abia State’s notable improvement in foreign investment rankings, attributing the achievement to policy reforms and efforts to create a conducive environment for investors. This progress, he said, reflects the administration’s dedication to economic growth.

Infrastructure Upgrades and Zero Pothole Policy In line with his administration’s zero pothole policy, Governor Otti announced the expansion and reconstruction of key roads in the state, including the 5.5-kilometer stretch from Onuimo to Tower awarded to Cranebury Construction Company. The project is part of a broader road development plan that includes five additional road projects across the state aimed at enhancing connectivity and easing movement for residents and businesses.

Empowering Abians in Agriculture On agriculture, the Governor revealed that funds have been approved for the 300 Abians who recently completed an agricultural training program, enabling them to begin implementation of their new skills. This support aims to boost productivity, self-sufficiency, and employment within the state’s agricultural sector.

Health Sector Expansion In an effort to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, Governor Otti signed off on the construction of 200 new primary health centers, with another 200 planned once the initial phase is complete. This initiative is part of a larger health program to improve access to quality healthcare services across Abia communities.

Local Governance and Recognition of ABSIEC Governor Otti congratulated the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC) for conducting free and fair local government elections, commending the integrity of the process. He also mentioned plans to meet with both outgoing and newly sworn-in local government chairpersons and their deputies to foster collaboration.

Minimum Wage and Salary Adjustments Addressing concerns over minimum wage adjustments, the Governor confirmed that an agreement has been reached with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on consequential adjustments. He assured citizens that reported issues have been noted and that he has directed the Accountant General to ensure all adjustments are correctly implemented.

Pension Fraud Crackdown Governor Otti disclosed that recent arrests have been made concerning pension fraud involving 10 to 11 individuals, some residing abroad. These individuals will face legal charges soon, with efforts underway to extradite those currently outside Nigeria. “Those defending thieves should be treated like thieves also,” he stated, underscoring his administration’s commitment to accountability.

Restoration of Law Faculty to Uturu The Governor affirmed his administration’s position on relocating the Abia State University’s Law Faculty from Umuahia back to Uturu. He assured that necessary resources would be provided to ensure comfort and adequate facilities for students and staff at the Uturu campus.

Power Solutions and Security Measures The Governor addressed power issues in Ohafia, expressing confidence that the newly inaugurated Greater Ohafia Development Authority (GODA) will handle the matter effectively. GODA, with Professor Awa Kalu (SAN) as Chairman and Engr. Obinna Odum as Director General, is expected to bring lasting solutions to Ohafia’s power supply challenges. Additionally, Governor Otti assured citizens that the recent shooting incident in Umuahia, which left three injured, is under investigation, with efforts underway to apprehend the perpetrators.

Advocacy for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release Governor Otti revealed his quiet efforts toward securing the release of Nnamdi Kanu, expressing a preference for results-driven action rather than media display. “I don’t believe in media shows; if he isn’t released afterward, what’s the benefit?” he questioned, reinforcing his commitment to a practical approach.

Abia State’s Debt Profile In response to public interest regarding the state’s debt, the Governor disclosed that Senator T.A. Orji’s administration left a debt of ₦34.5 billion, while his immediate predecessor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, handed over a debt profile of ₦191.2 billion. Governor Otti affirmed his administration has paid off ₦90 billion of the debt without taking on any additional loans.

Other Key Issues The Governor acknowledged reports of illegal salary deductions within the Ministry of Environment, especially deductions disguised as Christmas welfare. He assured that these issues would be reviewed to ensure fairness to all affected workers.

The Governor’s monthly media session concluded with journalists commending the detailed and transparent updates. Citizens across Abia State now look forward to seeing these projects and reforms come to fruition under Governor Otti’s administration.