UMUAHIA, Nigeria – Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has raised alarm over the financial situation of the state, stating that it’s in a “deep hole” due to huge debts.
He called on citizens to rally behind the government to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.
The governor made this statement during a thanksgiving church service on Sunday, June 18, 2023, for the newly sworn-in member representing the Ikwuano/Umuahia federal constituency in Abia State at the House of Representatives, Obi Aguocha.
The event took place at Okaiuga Central School Nkwoegwu Ohuhu in Umuahia North local government area of Abia State and was attended by prominent personalities, friends, political associates, and supporters of the federal lawmaker.
Governor Otti pointed out that the previous state government, which was controlled by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, left Abia State saddled with debts totaling N200 billion.
He expressed commitment on the part of the current administration to salvage the state from this debt burden, attributing the financial crisis to the misplaced priorities of the previous administration.
Addressing concerns over the delay in constituting the state executive council since his inauguration, Governor Otti revealed that the full constitution of the state executive council would be announced before the end of June.
Furthermore, he stated that the government is set to commence the payment of confirmed salary arrears and noted that retirees from the state service are owed several years of unpaid pensions and entitlements.
Governor Otti added, “We have started a forensic audit of the pensioners, to ensure the right people are paid since there were uncovered fictitious figures and numbers that cannot be confirmed.”
He appealed for the patience and support of the people of Abia State and asserted that the era of corrupt practices by public officials without consequences is over.
The Governor vowed to ensure accountability and transparency in the management of the state’s resources.
