ALGON Accuses Abia Ex-Governors of Political Envy Over Gov. Alex Otti’s Achievements

By Steve Oko

Umuahia, Abia — Local government chairmen in Abia State have accused former governors of “ganging up” against Governor Alex Otti, describing their actions as rooted in envy rather than genuine concern for the state.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, the Mayor of Isuikwuato LGA and Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Chinedu Ekeke, said the former governors were unsettled by the progress and reforms achieved under Gov. Otti’s administration.

“These are architects of a failed past who are intimidated by the present achievements in Abia State,” Ekeke said, flanked by 16 other council leaders. “Any attempt to undermine Gov. Otti will not succeed because he already enjoys massive grassroots support based on his performance and track record.”

The remarks follow threats from the ex-governors, who had vowed to ensure that Otti serves only a single term and to deliver Abia to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

Ekeke highlighted the governor’s accomplishments, noting that visible development across all 17 local government areas demonstrates a commitment to good governance, fiscal responsibility, and service delivery. “Every project executed, every reform implemented under Gov. Otti sets a new standard of governance,” he said. “It is this stark contrast with past administrations that has caused unease among his detractors.”

The ALGON chairman stressed that leadership in a democratic system should be determined by performance and the electorate’s will, not political threats or gang-ups. Council leaders also called for public discourse to be based on facts rather than “falsehoods, exaggerations, or revisionist narratives.”

On the matter of local council finances, Ekeke reassured that the Joint Allocation Account (JAAC) continues to ensure that all LGAs in the state receive their statutory allocations, dispelling claims of fund mismanagement by the state government.

The mayors concluded by reaffirming their commitment to supporting policies and programs that strengthen local governance and improve the quality of life for citizens.