*Progress Over Propaganda: *An assessment of Otti’s week of strategic social investment**
In the face of unprecedented progress, critics of Governor Alex Otti’s administration have resorted to peddling propaganda and misinformation. Despite the tangible results on the ground, naysayers continue to spread falsehoods and conspiracy theories in a desperate bid to discredit the governor’s achievements. However, the people of Abia State are not fooled; they can see the progress with their own eyes.
One of the most notable achievements of Governor Otti’s administration is the delivery of reliable power in Aba, the commercial hub of Abia State. This feat, which was deemed impossible by previous administrations, has fueled commerce and earned praise from residents. The Geometric Power Project, which was stalled for years, has been revived, and the results are evident. Despite the noise from critics, Governor Otti remains focused on delivering results, and the people of Abia State are reaping the benefits.
In Robust Defense of Governor Alex Otti and Abia State: A Rebuttal to Baseless Criticism
The recent victory of Ahudiyannem FC in the Abia State FA Cup is a testament to the renewed spirit of excellence and unity sweeping across Abia under the visionary leadership of Governor Alex Otti. Just as this homegrown team triumphed through grit and determination, so too is Abia State rising from the ashes of decades of decay, propelled by a government committed to transparency, infrastructure revival, and the dignity of its people.
Governor Otti’s Achievements Speak Volumes
Governor Otti’s administration has delivered tangible results in just 21 months, dismantling the rot of the past and prioritizing the welfare of Abians. Though I’m focusing on just one week of frenzied activities from last week, it’s impossible to ignore the broader context of 21 months of high-octane activities, which represent a continuum of progress.
- Education Revolution: Free, compulsory education at primary and secondary levels has led to a surge in school enrollment. Over 221 public schools are being upgraded statewide to meet this demand, with a declared emergency in education to fast-track improvements.
- Infrastructure Overhaul: Roads like the 19.2km Itukpa-Amnyi-Umuoba Road (a RAAMP/World Bank collaboration) and others are being reconstructed, reconnecting communities and boosting commerce. Critics who dismiss these partnerships fail to recognize that leveraging international support is a hallmark of proactive governance.
- Healthcare Transformation: The ongoing remodeling of 200 Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) under Project Ekwueme is a bold state-led initiative. While naysayers like Obinna Oriaku peddle conspiracy theories about “duplication,” the truth is that Governor Otti’s administration is complementing World Bank projects, not “copying” them. A government serious about development will exploit every avenue—state funds, federal partnerships, and donor agencies—to deliver for its people. The 200 PHCs are part of Abia’s own vision, and the list of locations has been publicly shared, underscoring transparency.
- Anti-Corruption Vigilance: Otti’s refusal to “negotiate with criminals” who looted Abia’s treasury has clearly rattled the old guard. His administration’s forensic audit revelations and dismissal of ghost workers—a necessary purge—expose the systemic fraud of previous regimes. Those lamenting “layoffs” are likely mourning the loss of illicit patronage networks.
Addressing the Noise-Makers
Critics like Obinna Oriaku, a former finance official under past administrations, reek of hypocrisy. Their sudden obsession with “accountability” is ironic, given their silence during eras when Abia’s funds were brazenly siphoned into private pockets. Their claims of “financial mismanagement” collapse under scrutiny:
- Pension Arrears: While past governors left pensioners destitute for years, Otti has systematically cleared arrears, with verifiable payments made to retirees. The recent pensioner protests were orchestrated by political actors seeking to distract from progress.
- Geometric Power Project: Reviving this initiative—stalled since 2014—is a triumph. To suggest Otti “appropriated” it is laughable; he delivered what others could not. Reliable power in Aba is now a reality, fueling commerce and earning praise from residents.
- Airport Project: The land dispute is being resolved through dialogue, with a technical committee engaging stakeholders. Otti’s commitment to due process contrasts sharply with the land-grabbing tendencies of predecessors.
The Motive Behind the Attacks
The desperation of naysayers is obvious: they fear a new Abia where accountability replaces impunity, and progress eclipses their failed legacies. Their reliance on cherry-picked data, smear campaigns, and semantic quibbles over “World Bank vs. state projects” reveals a lack of substantive criticism. They thrive on nostalgia for an era of stagnation, hoping to derail reforms that threaten their relevance.
Conclusion: Abia on the Rise
Governor Otti’s administration is a beacon of hope, not just for Abia but for Nigeria. His focus on restoring dignity through infrastructure, education, and healthcare has rekindled pride in Abians. To the critics: your time is over. Abia is moving forward, and no amount of misinformation can stop the roar of a people finally witnessing good governance.
Let it be clear: those who stand against Otti stand against the liberation of Abia. Their voices fade into irrelevance as the state marches boldly into its destined greatness.
#AbiaRising #OttiDelivers
Dr Chukwuemeka Ifegwu Eke writes from the University of Abuja Nigeria
