₦airaland Forum

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has disclosed that his administration uncovered and closed down several fraudulent bank accounts previously operated by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in the state, ABN TV reports.

Speaking at the 2025 Ngwa Convention held in St. Louis, Missouri, United States, Otti, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Caleb Ajagba, said the discovery was made possible through the introduction of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) at the inception of his administration.

He explained that the policy enabled the government to clean up the state’s payroll system, eliminate ghost workers, and transition to a digital payment structure.

“In the early days of this administration, the Treasury Single Account was introduced and this cleaned up payrolls through verification to remove ghost workers, and moved to digital payment systems. The implication is that several fraudulent bank accounts maintained by MDAs across the state that could not be accounted for were closed, thus ushering us into better management and use of public funds for public good,” he said.

Governor Otti noted that the gains from the financial reform have enhanced the government’s capacity to pay workers and pensioners regularly, while health, education, security, and infrastructure sectors have also received significant attention.

He commended members of the Ngwa clan in the diaspora for their contributions to the development of Abia State and urged them to partner further with his administration by investing at home.

Otti assured them that Abia is now one of the safest states in the country following the introduction of Operation Crush. This joint security outfit has drastically reduced kidnappings and other violent crimes.

The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has approved a new wave of appointments aimed at bolstering administrative effectiveness and deepening institutional reforms across the state’s public service. The appointments, which take immediate effect, were announced in a public service statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, FCA.

The list reflects the Otti-led administration’s continued focus on competence, accountability, and service-driven leadership across sectors.

PROTOCOL DEPARTMENT: To ensure seamless execution of official state events and maintain high-level protocol standards, Governor Otti approved the following appointments:

Uche Mark Nwosu – Chief Protocol Officer

Ikechukwu Nwankwo – Deputy Chief Protocol Officer

Adaeze Ivy Iroegbu – Chief Moderator

Emmanuel Paul Irechi – Protocol Officer

Amarachi Inyama – Protocol Officer

Augustine Chukwuebuka – Protocol Officer

These appointments are expected to professionalize the state’s protocol engagements and improve the image and orderliness of government functions.

Leadership of Abia State College of Education (Technical), Arochukwu: In a move aimed at strengthening the state’s tertiary education sector, Dr. Otti approved the appointments of:

Dr. Joe Emeson – Chairman, Governing Council

Dr. Mrs. Idowu O. Eluwa – Provost

Abuja Liaison Office

To enhance the state’s coordination and presence at the federal level, Iheanyi Frank Chinasa has been appointed as the Chief Liaison Officer/National Assembly Liaison Officer.

Abia State Transport Corporation Board

A new board has been appointed to reposition the state’s transport services. The members include:

Emmanuel M. Ufomba – Chairman

Godanswer P. Kalu – Member

Mrs. Salomey Onwu – Member

Kingsley Oriaku – Member

Onyebuchi Nna – Member

Additional Strategic Appointments

Governor Otti also made the following appointments to drive initiatives in key focus areas:

Chima Raymond Ukwa – Special Assistant, Sports

Prince Christian Enwerenmadu – Special Adviser, Agriculture

Mrs. Chinenye Nwaka – Senior Special Assistant, Women Affairs

These appointments are part of the Governor’s ongoing efforts to consolidate institutional reforms, enhance administrative effectiveness, and deepen service delivery in Abia State.

According to the SSG, all appointees are expected to resume duties immediately.

A day of celebration at the annual August meeting organized by the Abia State Governor’s wife in Ugwunagbo Local Government Area turned tragic on Monday, August 18, 2025, when a popular entertainer, Mrs. Nwandinma Dickson, widely known as “Nwayi Garri”, suddenly slumped and died during a performance, ABN TV reports.

She was born on October 1, 1960, and was 65 years old.

Mrs. Dickson, a native of Oza Umuebukwu in Nneji Autonomous Community, Ugwunagbo LGA, was scheduled to participate in dance and drama at the high-profile event. Dressed in her performance costume, she moved around different canopies, exchanging greetings and entertaining guests with her usual theatrics.

Eyewitnesses recounted that in the middle of her display, she stooped briefly and then slumped. Many in the audience initially mistook the incident for part of her act and continued cheering, only to realize minutes later that she was unresponsive.

The Mayor of Ugwunagbo LGA quickly intervened and used his vehicle to rush her to the hospital, but medical personnel pronounced her dead on arrival.

Family members told ABN TV that the late Mrs. Dickson had initially expressed reluctance to attend the meeting but eventually decided to honor her scheduled performance.

Her sudden passing has thrown the community into deep mourning, with many describing it as a devastating loss of a woman who used her talent to bring joy to others.

The Abia State Police Command has achieved a major breakthrough in its fight against kidnapping, following a successful raid on a notorious criminal hideout linked to the abduction of the Director of Sobaz Oil and Gas earlier this year.

According to a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka and made available to ABN TV , operatives acting on credible intelligence traced the suspects to Ikot Ukpon Village in Obot Akara Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

On Thursday, August 21, 2025, around 8:30 pm, police stormed the camp, arresting six suspected kidnappers. Items recovered from the operation included two AK-47 rifles, fifty-seven live rounds of ammunition, one locally made pistol, six magazines, and a large bag of charms and spiritual materials.

The suspects were linked to the March 4, 2025, abduction of the Sobaz Oil and Gas Director along Azumiri Road, Ukwa East LGA of Abia State — an incident that also claimed the lives of ASP Tanko Naptip of the Counter Terrorism Unit in Rivers State, Anayo Ukwu, and the Managing Director of DozzMan Filling Station, Mr. Chidozie Confidence Chijioke.

However, as operatives exited the camp after the successful raid, they were ambushed by other gang members who attempted to rescue their arrested colleagues. A fierce gun battle ensued, during which the six suspects sustained gunshot wounds while trying to escape and later died on the way to the hospital.

Other fleeing members of the gang escaped with bullet wounds, while two police officers sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ensuring that criminals have no safe haven in the state. He assured that the manhunt for fleeing suspects will continue in collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Police Command.

He also urged residents to be vigilant and report suspicious individuals, especially anyone with bullet injuries, to the nearest police station or through the Command’s hotlines: 08035415405, 08079210003, 08079210004, and 08079210005.

“See something, say something,” the CP stressed.

The Tripartite Team, a coalition of the OUK Movement, Reality Organization, and APC structures, has thrown its weight behind Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s re-election bid, insisting there is “no vacancy” in the Abia North Senate seat ahead of the 2027 polls.


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Speaking on ABN TV’s Political Perspective, Prince Emma Nwosu, convener of the group and an APC stalwart in Ohafia, said the team has grown into the most formidable political force in the area, boasting 62 formations and thousands of members mobilizing support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Kalu, and other APC candidates.

“Before now, the party was divided, but Senator Kalu has brought peace and unity. Today, APC in Abia North is more formidable than ever,” Nwosu declared on ABN TV’s Political Perspective.

He argued that Kalu’s record of performance, coupled with his status as a ranking senator, makes him the most qualified candidate to retain the seat.

Nwosu further advised politicians from Ohafia pushing zoning arguments to drop their ambitions and rally behind the incumbent for the sake of competence and stability.

“Leadership is about competence and results, not sentiment,” he maintained.

With the APC banking on Kalu’s performance and projecting unity across its ranks, the party is optimistic of sweeping victories in 2027, from the presidency to the state assembly.

Former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has called on members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remain committed and steadfast, stressing that loyalty to the party is the highest sacrifice expected of every member.

Ikpeazu made the call while hosting a meeting of select PDP stakeholders from Abia South zone at his country home in Umuobiakwa. He said the PDP would remain a dominant force in Abia and Nigeria if members stayed united and focused.

The former Governor tasked party leaders across the state to hold regular meetings at ward, local government, and zonal levels to strengthen party structures, while also cautioning them to resist what he described as “distractions from noise makers and naysayers.”

“Loyalty to the party is the ultimate sacrifice we owe to ourselves and to the people we serve. Once we remain united, no external force can defeat us,” Ikpeazu stated.

He further lamented that despite his achievements while in office, some individuals have chosen to unfairly blame him for every misfortune.

“If somebody’s pot of soup sours, they will blame Okezie Ikpeazu as being responsible for it,” he said.

In his remarks, the PDP Vice Chairman for Abia South, Enyinnaya Appolos, said the meeting created an avenue for leaders of the party in the zone to exchange ideas and receive a briefing from the former Governor, whom he described as the leader of the PDP in Abia State.

Former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has decried what he described as a deliberate attempt by critics to hold him responsible for every misfortune in the state, insisting that his record of achievements during his tenure remains undeniable.

Speaking when he hosted select leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the Abia South zone in his hometown, Umuobiakwa, Ikpeazu urged party members to remain steadfast, stressing that loyalty is the ultimate sacrifice expected of party faithful.

He dismissed what he called distractions from “noise makers and naysayers,” accusing some individuals of ignoring his developmental strides only to cast unwarranted blame on him.

“If somebody’s pot of soup sours, they will blame Okezie Ikpeazu as being responsible for it,” he remarked, lamenting what he described as unfair criticisms targeted at him.

The former Governor maintained that unity and loyalty were crucial for the PDP’s resurgence both in Abia and at the national level. He charged party leaders in the zone to strengthen the party’s structures through regular meetings, while assuring them that no external force could defeat the party once members stood together.

“Loyalty to the party is the ultimate sacrifice we owe to ourselves and to the people we serve. Once we remain united, no external force can defeat us,” Ikpeazu added.

In his contribution, the PDP Vice Chairman for Abia South, Enyinnaya Appolos, described the meeting as an avenue for leaders to exchange ideas and receive direction from the former Governor, whom he recognized as the leader of the party in the state.

Governor Alex Otti has announced the successful onboarding of 5,394 newly recruited teachers in Abia State, assuring that his administration is committed to improving the quality of education by ensuring teachers are deployed where they can perform optimally, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pi9gYb-ocQI

Speaking during the August edition of his monthly media chat with journalists in Umuahia on Friday, August 15, 2025, Otti revealed that while the teachers have already been posted to various schools, the State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) and the Ministry of Education have reviewed some postings to enhance efficiency.

The governor said he had received reports that some teachers were posted to distant locations where relocation might be difficult, affecting their performance.

“I’ve always been a firm believer that posting should not be treated as a punitive measure. If someone lives in Ukwa and you post them to Arochukwu, relocation may be difficult, and that would affect their output,” Otti stated.

“We want our teachers to be in their comfort zones so they can deliver their best. If any of the newly hired teachers feel their posting is unsuitable, they should return to us for adjustments.”

Otti further confirmed that all the newly employed teachers have been added to the state payroll from this month, stressing that his administration is focused on creating a conducive environment for educators to thrive while strengthening the state’s education system.

The Paramount Ruler of Ebem Ohafia Ancient Kingdom, HRH Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha (JP), in collaboration with the Ebem Council of Chiefs and Elders and key community stakeholders, has issued a set of strict resolutions aimed at restoring peace, order, and respect for tradition in the community.

The resolutions were reached during an emergency meeting held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the Ebem Ujurueze Palace, Ekeluogo, in response to rising incidents of lawlessness, moral decline, and disregard for cultural values by both indigenes and non-indigenes in the area.

Key highlights from the meeting include:

Motor Park Regulation: No two motor parks operating the same route will be permitted within 500 metres of each other. All motor parks must contribute annually to community infrastructure and comply with decisions of the Ebem Council of Chiefs and Elders.

Ban on Fetish Practices: Resorting to fetish means (Agbara) to settle disputes is prohibited. Offenders will pay ₦500,000 and perform a traditional Life Oath (Igba Ndu). Native doctors must operate within the bounds of Ebem’s customs.

Respect for Traditional Instructions: Misuse of cultural instruments like Akang to destroy property is banned. Offenders will face punishment under Ebem tradition. The sale of cooking gas in Ebem Market is prohibited.

No to Cultism and Drugs: Cultism, gangsterism, and drug abuse are outlawed. Landlords who shelter offenders risk sanctions. Anyone found with illegal arms will be handed over to the police.

Ban on Scrap Dealers (Akpakara): Scrap dealing is banned due to links with vandalism and theft. Operators have two weeks to vacate the community or face disciplinary measures.

Prohibition of Return of Banished Persons: Criminals previously banished from Ebem will not be allowed back. Persons banished from other communities are also barred from settling in Ebem.

Accountability for Age Grades: Age grades that fail to complete assigned community projects will be held responsible. Age grades must also discipline members who threaten peace.

The communiqué, signed by HRH Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha (JP) and other community leaders, sends a strong message of zero tolerance for activities threatening the stability and heritage of Ebem Ohafia.

Other signatories include Chief Emeka Mba (President General, EODU), Elder Idika Kalu Uche (Secretary General, EODU), Ifeanyi Okali (PRO, EODU), Chief Iro Nkwa Agwu, Mr. Uduma Okoro, and Barr. Anaga Kalu.

The leadership urged all residents to comply immediately, warning that enforcement will be strict and in line with both traditional and statutory laws.

A suspected vandal, identified as 27-year-old Chidiebere Ohama from Umuariaga Ohoma in Ikwuano Local Government Area, has been arrested in Umuahia for allegedly stealing a ladder belonging to the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) at Mission Hill, ABN TV reports.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOB2VKyUPrQ
Ohama was apprehended in the early hours of Friday, August 2025, by members of a local vigilante group while attempting to flee the area. During interrogation, he confessed to dismantling the ladder and selling it to a scrap dealer, identified as Chima, at New Road, Umuahia.

In his confession, Ohama revealed that he resides in a forest area in Umuahia, alongside other suspected vandals identified as Arinze, Chiluwa, Chimdia, and Chigozie. According to him, the group has been vandalising both government and private properties.

“I take drugs, mainly SK and Igbo (Indian hemp),” Ohama said. “I wanted to use the money from selling stolen items to travel to Libya. I am begging for forgiveness. My father is late, and my mother lives in the village.”

A vigilante operative, Mr. Chinonye Ikwuagwu, who was on duty at Mission Hill, told ABN TV that persistent thefts have plagued the area.

“They have been vandalising government and private properties here for a long time,” Ikwuagwu said. “They come all the way from the forest near New Road to Mission Hill, both in the day and night. Whenever you catch them, they claim it’s their first time. Thank God we caught one today.”

The suspect has been handed over to the Rapid Response Squad of the Central Police Station, Umuahia, for further investigation and prosecution.

Former Deputy Governor of Abia State, Rt. Hon. Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, has formally resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ending a long-standing political association with the party, ABN TV reports.

In a resignation letter dated August 5, 2025, and addressed to the Chairman of Ndi Elu Ward, Nkporo, Ohafia LGA, the immediate past Deputy Governor stated that his decision to quit the party was due to personal reasons. He noted that although the decision was difficult, it was the best course of action for him at this time.

“I am most grateful for the opportunities the Party availed me to serve at various levels and appreciate the experience and knowledge gained during my membership of the Party,” the letter read in part.

Rt. Hon. Oko Chukwu, who served as Abia’s Deputy Governor from May 2015 to May 2023, expressed appreciation to the PDP for its support over the years and wished the party well in its future endeavours.

His resignation letter was acknowledged and received by the ward leadership on August 7, 2025.

The development marks a significant shift in Abia State’s political landscape, as Oko Chukwu was a prominent figure in the PDP for many years, holding various positions before his two-term tenure as Deputy Governor

Legal luminary and public policy advocate, Dr. Monday Onyekachi Ubani, SAN, has urged state governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to adopt a deliberate policy of developing a structured night-time economy as a means of creating jobs, reducing crime, driving urban renewal, and rebranding Nigeria’s global image.

In a policy paper dated August 6, 2025, titled “Revitalizing Nigeria’s Nightlife Economy: A Strategic Pathway to Economic Growth, Job Creation, Crime Reduction, and Urban Renewal”, Ubani argued that transforming Nigeria’s largely underutilised night hours into hubs of economic and social activity could benefit millions of citizens.

The paper, addressed to all 36 state governors, the FCT Minister, and federal and state commissioners responsible for economic planning, tourism, security, youth development, and urban renewal, defined the night-time economy as activities between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., spanning entertainment, hospitality, transportation, logistics, security, night markets, and creative industries.

Ubani noted that these sectors form interconnected value chains capable of generating mass employment, especially for young people and women, if properly developed.

“A functioning night economy could absorb thousands of unemployed or underemployed Nigerians across sectors such as event promotion, hospitality, security, technology, and logistics,” he said, citing the UK Night-Time Industries Association report that the sector sustained 1.9 million jobs in 2023. He maintained that, with a population of over 220 million and a youth demographic of more than 60 percent, Nigeria could surpass such figures with the right policy frameworks.

Ubani described the night economy’s potential as offering a “triple dividend” of job creation, crime reduction, and national rebranding. He explained that creating economic opportunities for idle youth would reduce their vulnerability to crime, drug abuse, cultism, and unrest.

“A functional nightlife replaces gangs with sound systems, violence with creativity, and hopelessness with enterprise,” he said, adding that regulated night activities and proper street lighting have been proven to reduce petty crime and violence in other jurisdictions.

He further stressed that establishing supervised night zones could foster stronger relationships between youth and law enforcement while projecting Nigeria as a progressive and investment-ready African nation.

According to him, Nigeria’s global recognition in music, Nollywood, and fashion provides a strong foundation to position its cities as continental leaders in nightlife, similar to Cape Town, Nairobi, and Accra.