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From Idu Jude Abuja
A chieftain of the Labour Party (LP), Mrs. Oluchi Opara, has appealed to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, not to be a distraction to the good work Governor Otti is doing to develop Abia State.
She also reminded him that the state’s allocation from the federation account is statutory and should not be regarded as a gift from the ruling APC.
The former National Treasurer of the Labour Party, while reacting to Hon. Kalu’s recent submission, told Daily Sun that she firmly disagrees with the suggestion that Governor Alex Chioma Otti should publicly attribute Abia State’s developmental strides to the contributions of the President and APC leadership.
Mrs. Opara highlighted that while acknowledging the roles of all stakeholders in governance are important, it is equally critical to understand the context and mechanisms through which states access and utilise funds for development.
“The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), as you are aware, is the body responsible for distributing statutory national revenue among the federal, state, and local governments and it is a mandatory part of our Federal structure. These funds, derived from Nigeria’s collective resources, are allocated to states for the specific purpose of promoting development and enhancing the welfare of citizens.
“It is the constitutional responsibility of state governors to judiciously deploy these resources for the benefit of their people, a duty Governor Otti has executed with remarkable competence and transparency.
“Your suggestion appears to downplay the governor’s strategic leadership and prudent management of resources, which have been instrumental in transforming Abia State.
“Comparing budgets across administrations, as you seem to imply, is a valid exercise, but it must be done with a clear understanding of the economic realities that shape governance. Nigeria’s economic landscape has been profoundly affected by unprecedented inflation, skyrocketing costs of construction materials, and fluctuating economic conditions. Despite these challenges, Governor Otti has demonstrated exceptional fiscal discipline, ensuring that every naira allocated to Abia State is utilised to deliver tangible infrastructure and services that directly impact the lives of Abians.”
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Further speaking, she said that under Governor Otti’s leadership, Abia State has witnessed a renaissance after 24 years of stagnation and underdevelopment. She emphasised that his administration has concentrated efforts on critical sectors such as infrastructure, electricity, healthcare, and education, delivering projects that have restored hope and dignity to the people of Abia.
Some of these projects, according to her, include the rehabilitation of long-neglected roads, the revitalization of public utilities, and the promotion of economic opportunities.
“These accomplishments are not merely the result of federal allocations but reflect his visionary leadership, strategic planning, and relentless focus on the welfare of Abians.
“It is disheartening, Honourable Kalu, that rather than celebrating these milestones or offering constructive criticism to further strengthen governance in Abia, you have chosen to engage in what appears to be an attempt to score cheap political points.
“If you intend to contest for the governorship of Abia State, I urge you to boldly declare your ambition and present your vision to the people, rather than resorting to tactics that undermine the remarkable progress being made. The people of Abia are discerning and will undoubtedly continue to support a leader whose track record demonstrates integrity, competence, and a genuine passion for service. Governor Otti’s administration has set a high standard, and any aspirant seeking to lead Abia must rise to the occasion with ideas and policies that consider the state’s development.
“I implore you to reconsider your approach by stating the obvious fact that the people of Abia State are happy with the progress being achieved in Abia State. Leadership is not about divisive rhetoric or attempts to discredit those who are working tirelessly for the common good. Instead, it is about collaboration, constructive dialogue, and a shared commitment to uplifting the lives of citizens. Governor Otti’s administration has shown that governance can be transparent, accountable, and people-centred. As true lovers of good governance, we must rally behind leaders who place the welfare of the people above personal or political interests.
“People are supporting Governor Otti’s efforts to build a prosperous and inclusive Abia State. His administration’s achievements are a beacon of hope, not only for Abians but for Nigerians who yearn for transformative leadership. I call on all well-meaning individuals to join hands in promoting policies and initiatives that are centred for the welfare of the people and advance the cause of good governance,” she said.
