11/01/2026
Abia State Is Not For Sale: We Will Never Go Back To Egypt – Hon. Ginger O. Onwusibe |
Governor Alex Otti’s tenure in the governance of Abia State marks a conspicuous shift in the narrative of the state’s governance. From decades of public frustration with infrastructural decay and governmental weakness, moving to this period which is characterized by visible development, strategic planning, and institutional reforms. Indeed, the transformation is like night and day.
No administration is without critics and challenges but comparing the past administrations of Abia State with the present led by Dr. Alex Otti, is like comparing hell and heaven, retardation and progressiveness or in the popular local parlance – Egypt and the beautiful land of Canan aptly described in the Bible.
For over 24 years (1999–2023), the decay and governmental unresponsiveness graduated to very high levels. The immediate past administration left a very negative impression on the minds of all such that Abians fervently prayed that such should never repeat.
The Infrastructural neglect and decay witnessed by the State in the past was monumental, earning the State the infamous title of the worst state in Nigeria. From poor service delivery and limited visible development, allegations of corruption, mismanagement of funds, to very low public trust in government. The Civil Service was in shambles. Receiving salaries after a month of hard work became luxury. Many public officers were owed more than 24 months salaries. Pensioners were the worst hit. Aged people who served the state meritoriously languished daily in hunger with many dying in penury, not enjoying the fruits of their labour because of a very insensitive government.
His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti brought new dimensions and approach to governance, catapulting the state to greater path of profitability. His strategic vision and long-term development planning has positioned the state for sustained growth. His administration is widely noted for professional governance and transparency, eschewing sharing of state funds among the elites which is a clear shift from past unproductive political styles.
Also, one of the most visible contrasts with previous administrations is infrastructure and urban renewal. There is greatly improved connectivity in the rural areas with the massive construction of roads. These improvements have helped connect previously isolated towns to economic hubs, thereby stimulating local commerce.
In the Public Service sector, sanity has returned. The huge salary arrears have been cleared. Workers receive remuneration as when due including the payment of the ‘13th Month’ which was a very tall dream for the past administrations. Dr. Alex Otti also cleared all pension arrears, bringing credibility to governance.
Otti’s achievements are clearly marked departure from decades of neglect, especially in healthcare, education, human capital development, employment, Civil Service Reforms, governance standards and fiscal discipline.
These sterling impacts within just 2 years have put Abia State back on track, resulting in widespread praise and support both within the state, the nation and in the diaspora. The change is visible and Abians are enjoying the new season.
Abia State is not for sale! Our support for Dr. Alex Otti’s second tenure is non-negotiable. Mark those attacking his government. Check their antecedents. They are only interested in confiscating the resources of our dear state in their personal pockets, to be shared with their greedy friends. They do not have the good of Abia State in their hearts.
Let us all rise and collectively fight the same evil that plagued the state for 24 years. Abia has seen the light, we resolve never to return to darkness.
HON. GINGER ONWUSIBE
Isiala Ngwa North/South Federal Constituency
*Chairman House Committee on Financial Crimes*
