VIDEO: “When You Come To My Media Chat, Prepare Very Well” — Otti Tells Journalist

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has strongly defended the impact of his administration’s reforms, insisting that the results of governance in the state are visible and can be felt by residents in their daily lives.

The exchange occurred during the February edition of “Governor Alex Otti Speaks to Abians”, when a journalist, Chika Nwabueze of Don Media Group, asked the governor to provide measurable and transparent data showing how his policies have improved the economic and living conditions of ordinary Abians beyond infrastructure projects.

The journalist noted that while the administration had received praise for visible road construction and reforms, critics believe more verifiable evidence is needed to demonstrate inclusive governance and measurable economic impact.

Responding, Governor Otti questioned the foundation of the inquiry and challenged the journalist directly.

“You have not said anything. Do you live in Abia?” the governor asked.

He went further to cite practical examples of changes residents experience daily.

“The road you use, is it tarred? Do your children pay school fees? But you see, children that don’t pay school fees, right?”

Otti insisted that the monthly media engagement is a serious forum and should not be used for what he described as poorly framed questions.

“This media chat is a serious media chat. We are not here to massage your opposition,” he said.

“When we throw this open for people to ask questions, it doesn’t mean people should be stupid.”

The governor maintained that governance outcomes should be assessed through observable changes rather than abstract demands for statistics from the executive.

“If you can’t feel what is happening in this state where you live, then I’m sorry, I can’t help you,” he said.

“That’s not my business. My business is to deliver on my promises.”

Listing areas he believes demonstrate measurable progress, Otti referenced improved road infrastructure, reduced accidents and travel time, the introduction of free electric buses, and expanded access to healthcare services.

“Because roads have been done, accidents have reduced, travel time has reduced, and there are electric buses all over the place that are free of charge,” he stated.

“There are 200 primary health care centres that were not here before.”

He added: “If you want the governor to sit and tell you the economic impact, then something is wrong.”

Concluding the exchange, Governor Otti advised journalists to come better prepared for future sessions.

“Next time, when you are coming to ask a question, prepare very well,” he said.

Despite the tense moment, the governor reiterated that his administration remains focused on delivering on campaign promises and believes that government performance should be evaluated based on visible outcomes and practical improvements that residents can independently verify.