Abia At 34: Sir Chikwe Udensi Commends Progress, Demands Transparency, Accountability From Govt.

As Abia State marks its 34th anniversary, respected security expert and political figure, Sir Chikwe Udensi, has offered a candid assessment of the state’s development journey.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with ABN TV, Udensi acknowledged areas of commendable improvement but expressed deep concerns about what he described as glaring lapses in transparency, accountability, and governance structure.

Sir Udensi gave credit to the current administration for notable improvements in infrastructure, cleanliness, and salary regularity.

“There have been visible developments. The state is cleaner than it used to be. Salaries are now being paid more regularly. These are steps in the right direction,” he said.

Despite these positive developments, Sir Udensi raised red flags over the alleged mismanagement of public funds, particularly regarding project costs. He specifically questioned the ₦36.5 billion reportedly spent on constructing just 5.7 kilometers of road and ₦54 billion allegedly used to renovate 51 schools.

“Professionals have done due diligence, and the figures simply don’t add up. ₦36.5 billion for less than 6km of road is not just unacceptable—it’s insulting,” he stated.

He further accused the government of not providing physical evidence of the schools supposedly renovated, describing such omissions as “worrisome” and “not the hallmark of responsible leadership.”

Sir Udensi also criticized what he called a “one-man show” style of governance, where the governor appears to be the sole voice in decision-making, while commissioners and department heads remain silent.

“Where are the Commissioners for Finance and Education? If ₦54 billion was spent, they should be the ones addressing the public. Government is not a one-man affair,” he emphasized.

He stressed the importance of institutional accountability, warning that the current style could be harmful to the long-term management of state resources.

Referring to recent dismissive responses from government supporters toward public concerns—such as telling critics to “go and hug transformer”—Sir Udensi condemned what he called official arrogance.

“This is not how responsible governance works. You don’t insult the people for asking questions. Instead, provide clarity and transparency,” he said.

Concluding his remarks, Sir Udensi acknowledged that while Abia State has made progress in some sectors, it is far from where it should be after 34 years of existence.

“There is movement, yes—but not proper motion. We must move toward a system where public funds are fully accounted for and used for the benefit of the people,” he declared.

His remarks have since sparked reactions among political observers, with many calling for a renewed focus on fiscal discipline, institutional transparency, and people-centered governance as Abia enters its 35th year.