Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
A former member of Ime Obi Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Eze Nzenwata Mbakwe, has said that governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti is being persecuted for refusing to share the state’s funds to political godfathers.
This comes as he said the governor had done well in repositioning dilapidated state infrastructure, including the building of new access roads, and health and educational institutions that were previously lacking.
Mbakwe, former deputy chairman of the Abia Traditional Rulers Council, appealed to political opponents criticising the governor not to do so out of envy, but rather to engage in constructive criticism and commend him where necessary, in view of the significant developmental projects his administration is handling in the state.
Mbakwe said the old politicians in the state were uncomfortable with Dr Otti’s approach of not sharing money and his insistence on using all funds accruing to the state to work for the people. Hence, the criticisms, which he described as unfounded and misplaced.
“He is being criticised because he is not sharing money to godfathers and political associates like his predecessors. He is using it to develop Abia infrastructure.
“Go to Umuahia, the state capital, the place is beginning to look like a capital city. I mean Osaa Road area has seen an upgrade not known in the past. Umuahia/Uzuakoli/Isuikwuato/Alayi/Ohafia Road is wearing a new look. I think it’s being dualised. The governor is doing a good job.
“Allow Alex Otti to work. He cannot please everybody. He knows what he is doing,” the royal father pleaded.
On the election of new chairmen and councillors for the 17 local governments, the former deputy chairman of the state traditional rulers council lauded the State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC) for conducting a peaceful election and called on all Abians to support the newly inaugurated council leadership to work for growth and development in their various areas.
He commended the Igbo nation and Nigerians at large for the honour done towards the burial of the late president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
The former member of Ime Obi Ohanaeze lauded the deceased for his contributions to Igbo emancipation and moving the people forward in growth and development.
“Iwuanyanwu loved everything Igbo and worked for the people’s emancipation from being marginalised and annihilated.”