You Can’t Silence Accountability — APC Fires Back at Otti’s Intimidation Tactics
The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused Governor Alex Otti of fostering a climate of intimidation and suppressing accountability in the state.
In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Uche Aguoru, the opposition party alleged that individuals who demand transparency in governance are often subjected to harassment, bullying, and verbal attacks by agents of the state government.
The APC claimed that the governor is uncomfortable with scrutiny and has allegedly deployed loyalists to discredit critics, including prominent political figures such as Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and the party’s state chairman, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu.
According to the statement, the party expressed concern over what it described as “glaring mismanagement” of state resources, questioning how Abia, which it claims earns an average of ₦60 billion monthly, has continued to struggle with workers’ welfare and development challenges.
The party also faulted the state government’s claims on minimum wage implementation, insisting that Abia workers remain among the lowest paid in the country. It cited disparities in salary structures, alleging that civil servants in neighboring states earn significantly higher wages than their counterparts in Abia.
On local government administration, the APC raised concerns over the utilization of funds, alleging that councils receive between ₦450 million and ₦600 million monthly without corresponding developmental projects to justify the expenditure.
The statement further questioned the operations of Signature Bank, alleging that its rapid growth, despite a limited customer base, raises concerns about transparency and financial management in the state.
The APC also accused the Otti administration of awarding contracts without due process, alleging that projects are being handled outside established government procedures.
While acknowledging increased federal allocations under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the party argued that the benefits have not translated into improved living conditions for Abia residents.
Reaffirming its role as an opposition party, the APC said it would continue to demand accountability and resist any form of intimidation. It also expressed confidence in reclaiming political leadership in the state in the 2027 general elections.
