The Abia State Government and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have engaged in a fresh war of words following criticisms directed at Governor Alex Otti’s administration by the party’s State Chairman, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu.
In a strongly worded statement issued on March 21, 2026, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, dismissed the APC chairman’s remarks as misleading, uninformed, and politically motivated.
Ekeoma accused Chukwu of making inconsistent claims about governance in Abia State, particularly on issues relating to federal allocations and the performance of the current administration. He described the opposition’s stance as an attempt to discredit the government despite what he called “clear evidence of progress.”
Defending Governor Otti’s record, the government spokesman highlighted ongoing reforms in the state, including the payment of salary and pension arrears, implementation of the new ₦70,000 minimum wage, and regular payment of workers’ salaries.
He further stated that the administration has carried out transparent recruitment of teachers and healthcare workers, stressing that the process was free of the irregularities allegedly associated with previous governments.
On labour matters, Ekeoma faulted the APC chairman’s comments on “consequential adjustments,” noting that the concept is a standard practice used to maintain salary balance after minimum wage increases.
The governor’s aide also disclosed that the state government is preparing to commence the payment of accumulated gratuity arrears owed to retirees, describing it as part of efforts to address longstanding welfare issues.
Ekeoma maintained that Abia has moved beyond what he termed “mediocre governance,” insisting that the current administration remains focused on delivering sustainable development across the state.
The development signals intensifying political tensions between the ruling government and opposition voices in Abia State, as both sides continue to exchange criticisms over governance and policy direction.
