₦airaland Forum

good health is tantamount to wealth and for that reason the preservation of the security and property of Abians as well as the provision of adequate health care have come to take the centre stage in Abia development agenda though the legacy projects agenda.”

Kalu Idika Kalu Denies Undermining Abia Government

Former Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu, has denied a recent statement credited to him by one of the national dailies where he was quoted to had said that development in Abia State fell short of the expectations of the founding fathers.

Kalu who made the denial while addressing journalists at his Ebem Ohafia country home, commended Governor Theodore Orji for the developmental
projects he has initiated in Abia since coming on board in 2007 till date.

The former Commissioner for Finance in Old Imo State who maintained that he never scored Governor Orji’s government low in terms of infrastructural development especially as it concerns Aba, said so far he was happy the way Governor Orji has continued to move Abia State forward.

Dr. Idika who claimed that he commented on national issues as regards the general problem of the nation, said at no time did he refer to Abia on any specific issue of development.

“The statement was made in the context of Nigeria’s
development over the last 100 years, but I was completely taken out of context. I did not any way refer to Abia state in particular.

“Absolutely not what I said; I never said that Aba
was the worst. We are highly encouraged by positions taken so far by this
administration. I have a lot of legacy projects. I am quite aware of all the
good initiatives taken by this administration to develop the state”, Kalu said.
Visibly angry Kalu said that he has very cordial relationship with Governor Theodore Orji that if he had any issue with his administration he would reach him personally not through the pages of newspapers.

“There is absolutely no coma in my relationship with Governor Orji. If I have an issue to discuss with him, I will discuss it personally with him not through the media. The publication may be politically motivated to create rancor between us.

“I have the highest regard for his Excellency because he is up and running to make the state better. In fact if we have time some of us would be coming around to see him and offer our advice and assistance,” he said.

According to him, journalists while reporting should put their reports in proper perspective even as he implored them to always highlight efforts being made
by leaders to develop the country and the states

Abia lifts embargo on employment

Theodore Orji of Abia State has approved waiver for employment in the state civil service. According to Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Charles Ajunwa, the decision was taken by the Government to reposition the state’s economy. The decision, he explained was taken by the State Executive Council had last. In a statement, Ajunwa named those to benefit from the waiver for employment to include Abians, especially youths and those who returned from the northern part of the country because of security problems. Others to benefit from the waiver for employment, according to him, are non-indigenes disengaged from the state’s civil service in 2011. It would be recalled that in apparent response to continued shortfall in revenue accruable to the state, the state government had placed an embargo on employment of civil servants. The Government’s job embargo pitched the state against fresh graduates desirous of employment; the big hammer fell mostly on no- indigenes that were disengaged to allow the state sufficient leverage to recover from an imminent financial distress. However, Governor Orji has said that an appreciable increase in the state’s Internally Generated Revenue has offered him an opportunity to absorb fresh graduates with special consideration for non-indigenes who were disengaged from the State Civil service in 2011. The Government has therefore the Governor inaugurated a committee headed by the state’s Head of Service, Mr. G.C. Adiele, Chief of Staff to Governor, Mr. Cosmos Ndukwe, Commissioner for Education and Commissioner for Youth Development, to work out modalities for a successful execution of the pronouncement. Also, the Government has also inaugurated a Strategy Committee for the building of an Airport in the State.

Abia State Governor, Chief T. A. Orji, As A Successful Leader

Common attributes of successful leaders, whether born with the proverbial golden spoon in the mouth or fortunate enough to have had their nuts cracked for them by the proverbial benevolent spirit, include great power of vision, focus, large heart of dedicated service and patriotism. Analysts of world affairs are also of the opinion that quality leadership fast-tracks the development drive of their societies by making effective and efficient use of available human and material resources.

The third democratically elected Governor of Abia God’s Own State, Chief T.A. Orji (Ochendo) belongs to this class and so has uniquely proven himself an innovator, servant leader in bureaucracy and politics and who is dedicated to human and infrastructural transformation of the Abia State. Emerging from the realm of the civil service to that of political leadership of Abia State, Governor T.A. Orji has become a celebrated national case study exemplifying true leadership, humility, hardwork and achievement notwithstanding challenges on his way. Indeed, the admonition of our Lord Jesus Christ to Christians to let their light so shine before men and women that they may see their good works and glorify their father who is in heaven, has found true expression in the life and governance of Governor T.A. Orji.

With diligent implementation of his people-oriented policies and programmes, Governor T.A. Orji has indeed strategically made tremendous difference in the political engineering of the state since her creation on August 27, 1991.

One of such positive testimonies is his political recruitment of ebullient professionals, tested men and women representing, in equitable terms, the three geo-political zones of the state, in the State’s Executive Council and other segments of the state’s political and administrative structure.

This has no doubt engendered a great sense of belonging among all strata of Abia populace and positive inputs into the socio-economic and political system resulting in steady growth and development in all sectors of the economy.

Today, Abia State is witnessing peace and tranquillity among the diverse Abia populace; this has hardly been seen before, because politicians of different party blocs seem to have found a common platform on which to ventilate their ideas in a progressive format.

This has engendered unity of purpose. After all, has it not been said, time without number, that peace and unity remain the strong pillars of social equilibrium and human advancement.

Having created the strong base for enhanced social cohesion among Abians, the Governor T.A. Orji administration has equally concretized human capital development through various skills acquisition programmes for Abia youths. The result is that thousands who would have been dependants are now bread winners and agents of economic development. Apart from the training of thousands of youths, the trainees were armed with the relevant starter parks and funds for the smooth take-off of their learned trades.

The health and housing sectors of the state’s economy have also enjoyed robust attention of the Governor T.A. Orji administration. These feats have robbed off on the health care delivery of Abians. For the first time in the history of Abia State, we have the international standard specialist diagnostic and dialysis centres both in Umuahia and Aba, several general hospitals have been built and more are being built in addition to over 720 primary health centres already constructed and equipped. The feat also include the 100-bed hospitals built in nine out of the 17 local government areas of the state.

Governor T.A. Orji also provided ambulances in all the 17 local government areas in the state for the movement of patients to hospitals. He also provided hundreds of tricycles in this regard.

The relocation of old markets in Umuahia, the state capital, and establishment of new ones such as the Modern Market in Ubani Ibeku and the Industrial Market in Azueke Ibeku not to talk of Ohiya Mechanic Village, is a master stroke that has given the state capital a facelift. It is a pragmatic step to broaden the infrastructural landscape and economic base of Umuahia. Furthermore, high rise buildings and modern architectural edifices now dot the landscape of Umuahia.

These include the International Conference Centre, New Workers' Secretariat, New Government House, Joint Allocation Committee building complex, ASUBEB secretariat, to mention but a few.

The dispensation of justice in Abia has been given a new definition through the building of modern High Court complexes in Umuahia and Aba. Road construction as a catalyst for economic and social transformation has equally captured due attention of the administration of Governor T.A. Orji. For instance, many roads in Aba, the commercial nerve centre of the state and other cities like Umuahia have been reconstructed while new ones have been embarked upon in the local government areas.

Take it or leave it, Governor T.A. Orji has impacted positively on all sectors of the state’s economy and has reconnected the political web of the state to the Federal Government thereby promoting national unity, better coordination of developmental programmes and provision of dividends of democracy.

Little wonder, the strings of national and international awards to the Governor T.A. Orji seem unending. It is indeed an acknowledgement of his hardwork and commitment to excellence.

What is natural, befitting and beneficial for the present and future generation is to give the Governor the needed continued support, cooperation and suggestions that will encourage him to do more. For Governor T.A. Orji, he is a confirmed bridge builder, restorer of hope whose legacy projects will stand the test of time. Bravo the Legacy Governor!

Charles Ajunwa
Chief Press Secretary To The Executive Governor
Abia State, Nigeria.

Orji, Father Of Empowerment; Says Iheasinmuo

Member representing Aba South State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Chief Nwogu Iheasinmuo has described Gov. Theodore Orji as the father of empowerment whose legacies will continue to endure in the state.

Iheasinmuo who stated this while handing over 7 Passat cars, 2 18-seater buses, 70 refrigerators, 5 air-conditioners, 2,000 pieces of clothes, 100 units of sewing machines, 70 giant deep freezers, amongst other items worth over N30 million to his constituents, said he was motivated by Gov. Orji’s benevolence in giving out free cars, buses and skill acquisition programmes to the people of the state.

“What we are doing today is in keeping faith with our campaign promises of empowering our people from time to time. The empowerment programme is geared making self dependent. We will continue to do it as the Lord strengthens us. My representation of Aba South will continue to attract people-oriented projects and empowerment of the people of my constituency. There is a need for every political office holder to put in place an enduring empowerment programme to reduce the poverty level among our people I’m following the examples set by Gov. Theodore Orji, Ochendo, who I call the ‘Father of Empowerment’ who has been giving free cars, buses and skill acquisition to empower the people of the state,” Iheasinmuo said.

While presenting cars to the ward chairmen, Chairman of the occasion and Deputy Chief of Staff to the Deputy Governor, Charles Ogbonna described the empowerment programme as first of its kind stressing that the type of items procured by the lawmaker has set him apart as a people friendly legislator.

He called on the recipients to make good use of the items to better their lives of their families and continue to support the Iheasinmuo and the state government.

Speaking at the occasion, Speaker, Abia state House of Assembly, Chief Ude Oko Chukwu who also commended Iheasinmuo for the programme urged the people of Aba South constituency to return the lawmaker for a second term considering his great contributions in empowering the people.

One of the ward chairmen who received cars simply identified as Emmanuel thanked the lawmaker for empowering them, adding that he has been a blessing to the people of Aba South constituency since he assumed office.

OPEN LETTER TO HIS EXCELLENCY CHIEF DR. T. A.
ORJI (OCHENDO)

Your Excellency,
This letter should not come to you as a surprise. You
are used to this kind of open letters. It is not however
the kind of letters that recently exchanged hands
between certain individuals in the country as this is
being written in utmost good faith and with deepest
sense of sincerity and patrotism.
Having seen the tremendous infrastructural
development crisscrossing the length and breadth of
Abia State, one cannot but agree that you are the best
governor Abia State has ever had since its creation in
terms of performance and infrastructural
development. Facts and figures abound to give
modicum of credence to this assertion.
Our brothers and sisters in diaspora who visited home
for the yuletide would unarguably have stories to tell
of the atmosphere of peace and security pervading
the State, the number of roads that have been
constructed in the State and the ones construction of
which are still ongoing and other projects being
undertaken by Your Excellency.
Every Abian has seen the (nearly completed)
International Conference Centre being built by your
administration, the newly built, fully equipped and
functional Abia State Specialist Hospital and
Diagnostic Centre, New Workers Secretariat, Ultra
Modern High Court Complexes at Aba and Umuahia,
the Broadcasting Corporation of Abia State Complex,
the E-Library Complex, the ultra modern Abia State
Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) Complex,
the ultra modern Abia State House of Assembly
Complex, the renovated Abia State Workers
Secretariat, the renovated and reconstructed
Customary Court of Appeal Complex, the Ministry of
Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs Complex,
the new Government House Complex (still under
construction), the Abia State Planning Commission
Complex, the ultra modern Ministry of Justice
Complex, the Women Development and Skills
Acquisition Centre Complex, the ultra modern Ubani
Ibeku International Market, the New Timber and
Industrial Glory Market, Abia State Shopping Mall
Complex (under construction), the activities of the
Abia State Youth Empowerment Scheme, just to
mention but a few. Emphatically, all these projects
and more which form a firm foundation and solid base
for a development driven State are on ground for
anyone to see.
It is no longer news that you have built new roads and
reconstructed old ones in all the parts of the State. In
fact, road construction and maintenance rank among
the many successes recorded by your administration.
The truth must be told even if heavens fall (and of
course the heavens will never fall). Evidently, the
following roads, which I have personally traversed,
speak volumes of my foregoing assertion:
1. Amuzukwu – Umuezeagwu Road Umuahia
2. Umuovom Nkata Bypass Umuahia
3. Umueze - Agbo - Ubani Road Umuahia
4. Okwoyi Ozuitem Road Umuahia
5. Nkata – Isiadu – Amaeke Road Umuahia
6. Ndume Otuka Bypass Umuahia
7. Iyienyi – Okwoyi Road Umuahia
8. Isieke – Okwuta – Ahiaeke Road Umuahia
9. Nkata Alike – Umukabia Road Umuahia
10. Eluama – Nunya Road Isuikwuato
11. Amaekpu – Okagwe Road Ohafia
12. Agbo Udide – Umuire Road Umuahia
13. Ogbor Hill – Omoba – Obikabia Road Aba
14. Constitution Crescent Road Aba
15. Milverton Road Aba
16. Abiriba – Nkporo Road
17. Ogbuebila – Oloko Road Ikwuano
18. Brass Road Aba
19. Ururuka Obikabia Road Aba
20. John Udeagbala Bypass Aba
21. Ntigha – Mbawsi Road
22. Uratta Road Aba
23. Umuafai Road Umuahia
24. Etc
There is no gainsaying the fact that the infrastructural
and socio economic development of the State have
remained your prime agenda and the focal thrust of
your administration hence the emphasis on the
execution of “Legacy Projects” by your
administration. The effort of your administration
towards laying a solid foundation for the development
of the state is not a fluke. Reasons abound to show
that the projects embarked upon by your
administration are well conceptualized and planned
prior to their execution as they form the focal thrust
of your administration.
Emphatically, no one can turn a blind eye to the
pervading relative peace and security and the
encouraging environmental sanitary condition of the
State in general and the Capital City Umuahia in
particular. Worthy of mention also are your activities
in the Abia Liberation Farms initiative in the
agricultural sector, culture and tourism, education,
health, commerce and industry. Abia State is really
working.
When Your Excellency takes a look at the political will
and the desires of Abia State electorates who ensured
that you assumed the seat of power of Abia State,
Your Excellency shall be encouraged to ignore all
detractors and chronic cynical critics and continue in
your development agenda in the State. Those cynical
critics only know the way but they do not know how
to drive the car. This explains the reason they cannot
proffer solutions in their criticisms of State policies.
They always see the wrong side of every government
action. They will always want to compare Abia State
(a developing economy) with developed cities in the
world without pausing to consider the inherent
different historical backgrounds as well as unequal
and irreconcilable development yardsticks.
In a normal clime, a constructive criticism should be
able to proffer solutions and not to out rightly
condemn the efforts of another, throwing away the
baby with the bath water. For instance, inasmuch as
the State desires to increase her internally generated
revenue base, Your Excellency should seriously beam
your searchlight on the activities of the revenue
collectors who place unbearable multiple taxes on
traders, transporters and peasants in the name of
“generating revenue for the State”. Your Excellency
should equally as a matter of urgency harmonize the
revenue collection strategy in the State in order to
check the activities of those revenue collectors whose
stock in trade is to sabotage your genuine efforts. We
are aware that most of the said revenues end up in
the pockets of the collectors.
It is advised that critics should strive towards finding
a common ground with the government to ensure the
realization of the socio economic and infrastructural
development agenda of the State. Criticisms by
cynics should not discourage or deter you, rather our
applauses and commendations should spur you to
more action in the overriding interest of the State.
It is strongly believed that there would not have been
a need for the building and construction of a
conference centre of international standard in the
State had one been built by your predecessors in
office, likewise the other projects. On the other hand,
with the legacy projects on ground, State funds shall
be deployed and injected by successive governments
into other areas of utmost importance in the State.
Thus, the legacy projects being executed by Your
Excellency being a foundation for a strong and virile
future Abia State should be maintained and improved
upon by your successors in office.
Finally Your Excellency, the completion of the new
Government House Complex, the proposed Abia State
Airport and the proposed new Seaport at Obuaku
Ukwa should rank foremost in the development policy
priorities of your administration for the year 2014.
The reasons for this are obvious.
It is my sincere prayer that Your Excellency shall, in
this new year, continue to enjoy God’s protection,
wisdom and direction as you continue to discharge
the functions of your highly esteemed office.
Let us pray for our leaders. Let us pray for Ochendo.
Let us pray for Abia State. Abia State belongs to us.
Long Live Abia State, Long Live Ochendo, Long Live
Nigeria.

“Abia needs an airport to boost economy” – Emezue


Former Chief Press Secretary to Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State, Mr. Ugochukwu Emezue, has commended the state government’s decision to build an airport in the state.

He said the proposed airport would boost investment and provide job for the people of the state.

According to Emezue, those criticising the decision to build an airport were ignorant of the immense economic benefits attached to an airport and the owners.

Already, a site has been located in communities in Umuahia South and Ikwuano Local Government councils for the proposed airport.

Emezue also lauded Governor Theodore Orji for the political will to relocate Umuahia Main Market, which hitherto was located at the heart of the capital city, thereby defacing the beauty of the city.

Now relocated to Ubani, the idea to remove the market from the city centre, according to him, had been mooted since 1935 during the colonial regime.

He noted that till Orji’s administration, none of the past governments had been able to muster the political will to relocate it.

He hoped that the new project, being planned for the old site of the market, would add to both economic and aesthetic values of the city and the state in general.

He said: “It was a very good decision to build an airport in the state; there is nothing wrong in planning to build an airport for the state. It is a project that will bring more investments and more jobs for the people”.

He added that the administration of Chief Orji had done very well in virtually all sectors, including security, infrastructure and health, and called on Abians to continue to support him and convince him to go to the Senate in 2015.
Send your press release/articles to: newsdesk@dailypost.com.ng

This is to inform the good people of Abia state that there is a bogus news been projected by some miscreants and weak minds which has it that the Abia state youth empowerment scheme is not designed to benefit the youth ,rather that any staged benefactor would have paid a certain sum of money before been empowered with a vehicle...Such sham account or information should be ignored because the state government is not collecting any amount of money from beneficiary and never designed the scheme in that order.The truth remains that it is purely an empowerment programme designed to assist the youth in Abia state and the government of Abis state and the organizers would never collect money from beneficiary in any way.So my good people,ignore any such fake news because it is purely cheap propaganda emanating from enemies of great achievement of the present government lead by Chief T.A Orji.Abia ga na aga niru...

People are being maopic,what is wrong in given out cars to help the youth ? The only thing I know about weak minds are their aspersion which they always harangue around with in an attempt to malign the state government and her interest on the citizenry....I will always support the state government for their effort that they have made so far through this scheme...carry on Ochendo

I only feel sorry for weak people, What I’ve come to find is that the weak people are the ones that are the haters.Because T.A Orji is obviously one strong individual to be able to achieve what he has achieved.It is true that all the governors have their share of bad press ,so T.A is not an exemption but as for the effort he has made,and as for the things he has achieved in Abia state,they are second to none to compare to the past governors Abia has had. The Pied Piper isn’t fazed out though.They are the crtitic clowns entertaining the circus of politics . I don’t get into what people like that think of the governor because he is better than than what the haters make of him.

T.A is a leader who is inteligent, he is neither hostile nor dominance. He is possesses the character of a leader that does not create deep-seated antagonism between his aides and his underlings . T.A ORJI is a leader who is ever ready to move Abia state forward with the little resources he as got from the federation, and he has been active in his administrative dealings

Orji mourns Mandela’s exit, describes him as icon of African democracy


Governor Orji Mourns Mandela’s Exit at 95, Describes Him as Icon of African Democracy

Abia State Governor, Chief Theodore Orji, has described the death of former President of South Africa, Dr. Nelson Mandela, as a big loss to the African continent and international community.

In a press statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Charles Ajunwa, Governor Orji who expressed sadness over Mandela’s demise at the age of 95, said the late freedom fighter popularly called Madiba by his admirers all over the world until his death remained a revered leader par excellence and an icon of African democracy.

According to him, Madela’s struggle against apartheid rule in South Africa which landed him in prison for 27 years and his eventual freedom before he become the first South African black in 1994, portrayed him as a fearless leader who fought injustice to a standstill.

“Dr. Nelson Mandela was a great leader. And he was an epitome of peace, justice, humility whose positive disposition to governance especially in African continent brought dignity and respect to Blacks all over the world. Indeed, the world has lost an icon of democracy. He lived a fulfilled life worthy of emulation by all and sundry.”

Meanwhile, Governor Orji has expressed shock over the deaths of school children who lost their lives when a truck driver lost control and rammed into a classroom at Ogbor Hill, Aba.

The Governor who described the sudden deaths of the children as unfortunate, equally consoled their parents to take heart and not to lose hope. He prayed that the souls of the departed rest in peace.

Nnaji Obed Asiegbu
SA e-Governance & Strategy
to the Abia State Governor

Kudos to Governors Oshiomhole, Fashola and Orji; but

The ideal role of a critic is to serve the best interest of society through constructive criticism by drawing the attention of leaders of society to issues which are begging for redress. It is however not enough to enumerate and propagate what is wrong. A good critic ought to, in addition, proffer solutions to the problems or articulate alternative options for handling identified concerns. More importantly, a critic should be charitable enough to commend leaders in those areas where they have made efforts to right their wrongs. The latter is the premise of today’s article which identifies 3 state governors whose recent activities deserve some measure of commendation. The governors are Adams Oshiomhole of Edo, Babatunde Fashola of Lagos and Theodore Orji of Abia.

We begin with the recent story of Governor Oshiomhole who came across a widow that displayed her wares right on a road in Benin City thereby creating blockade and obstruction. The Governor, who was visibly angered by the act, chastised the lady and directed his ‘gbomo-gbomo’ sanitation officials to confiscate her wares. He did not only turn a deaf ear to her supplications for mercy, the diction of his chastisement was undoubtedly loathsome. This attracted instant public condemnation especially as Oshiomhole, a fellow comrade to the lady until a few years back, was expected to be more compassionate because of his knowledge of the ABC of the desperation of the impoverished Nigerian worker.

A few days later, the comrade governor publicly apologised for his conduct and financially empowered the lady to become a more fulfilled citizen. The drama of a tea-drinking session of the governor and the widow, the hyper publicity given to the humane dimension of the governor’s remorse as well as the political colouring the opposition party in the state weaved into the subject are not our current concerns. Rather, we like to appreciate the uncommon practice of a Nigerian governor accepting a fault and making amends. However, Oshiomhole has 2 more assignments. First, he should endeavour to create an enabling environment in the state for all those striving daily for subsistence and not just one ‘lucky’ widow. Second, he should jettison the fire brigade approach of seeking to change a people’s negative attitude through bullying and sanctions. An aggressive re-orientation and public enlightenment scheme which inculcates in the public, the advantages of orderliness portends greater efficacy.

In the case of Governor Fashola, it will be recalled that some 4 months ago, he deported from Lagos, some Nigerians of Anambra origin. This pushed the otherwise amiable governor into the camp of the myopic group of leaders who discriminate against fellow Nigerians because of their state of origin. Of course, he was roundly condemned for it by many Nigerians including this writer. In due course, Fashola publicly apologised for the action and won back the admiration of many. While thanking the governor for the posture, it is hoped that he would continue to serve as a listening leader who takes criticisms in good faith.

Against this backdrop, it is pertinent to recall the recent sanctions imposed on the Principal of Ikeja Junior Grammar School because her school was publicly exposed by the media for what it is – an institution where pupils learn on the bare floor. A government statement that the Principal was not punished but merely queried is no doubt a negative reaction to the criticism of a shameful learning arrangement by the government. Why should any Lagos School operate without furniture? Was it an oversight or the result of misappropriation of funds? If so has anyone been held accountable? Did the inspectorate branch of the Ministry of Education not know of such an appalling situation? Finally, has the situation been rectified and furniture supplied to the School? A dynamic approach to these posers is a better way to respond to the criticism at hand.

There is also the case of Abia State which in August 2011 sacked non-indigenes from its workforce. The obnoxious policy was condemned by all but Governor Theodore Orji was for long unperturbed by the overwhelming negative public opinion on the issue. All of a sudden however, Orji made a dramatic U-turn, 2 years later and reversed the policy. While the governor says his ‘born- again’ posture was influenced by the need to foster national unity, some critics believe it was done with a political agenda in mind. Even if what influenced Orji is the latest trend where vision seeing clerics manipulate our leaders we don’t care. What matters is that Abia State has cancelled her detestable policy of treating some Nigerians as aliens in their country. We commend it and pray that it is for real and also urge all our leaders to emulate the development because our heterogeneous nation is in dire need of integration.

Is this writer who occasionally seeks to enhance only his kith and kin not contradicting himself now? Of course not; because competitive ethnicity is the reality in today’s Nigeria. No one can convince me to pretend to be a nationalist if for instance; my child who scored higher than his mates in an entrance examination is denied admission simply because of his state of origin. I will similarly ignore my critics if my brother is superseded by a junior officer in his place of work only because of his state of origin. Our premise is that we cannot achieve national integration if we do not discard prescriptive matters like state of origin as a basis for enjoying national privileges.

Our Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu got it right the other day, when he reminded us that the golden eaglets that recently conquered the soccer world did not get into the team on the basis of state of origin. Thus, nationalism is good in a true nation, not one whose component parts have hidden and incompatible agenda. Let every Nigerian be committed in words and in deed to the concept of one Nigeria by following the injunction of Section 15(2) of our constitution, that no one should be discriminated against “on the grounds of place of origin, sex, religion, status, ethnic or linguistic association or ties”.---Vanguard

The Abia State House of Assembly summoned the Attorney

General of the State and Barr. I.C. Nwachukwu

Abia State House of Assembly has summoned the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and the Secretary of Judiciary Service Commission, Barr I.C. Nwachukwu to appear before it in the Plenary Session of Monday the 9th day of December 2013 by 11am to explain the reasons why the Judiciary Service Commission should not be made to reverse the appointment of Mrs. N.A. Nwoke and the reasons why the provision of the multi-door Court House Law and indeed any other of this State should not be obeyed.

This follows a motion made by the House Committee Chairman on Judiciary; Hon. Prince Ikedi Ezekwesiri in pursuant to the sections 128, 129 and 201 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) 1999. Following a petition dated 25th October, 2013 written by a member of Judiciary Sendee Commission which the House through its standing Committee on Judiciary, promptly acted upon by directing the Judiciary Service Commission to stop further action on the matter and which directive was adequately aired on BCA Radio.

Seconding the motion, the Leader, Hon. Barr. Chidiebere NwoKe stated that it has become imperative for Abia House of Assembly to protect its integrity and sanctity from the flagrant abuse by public offices appointed by Abia State Government.

Similarly, the Abia State 2013 Supplementary Appropriation Bill passed through its first and second readings respectively on the floor of the House.

Speaking during the plenary session of Monday 2nd December 2013, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Ude Oko Chukwu stated that the sum of Twenty Six billion. Nine hundred and forty nine million, two hundred and sixty nine thousand, four hundred and two (N26, 449,269,402.00) naira only was provided for the services of the State Government in the 2013 Supplementary Budget estimate.

Orji Forster Principal Information Officer.

Governor Orji negotiates re-opening of Bank of Industry in Aba

Gov. Theodore Orji of Abia on Monday said that negotiations to reopen the Aba branch of the Bank of Industry had commenced.

Orji made this known when he addressed the traders of Ariaria International market, who staged a ‘one million-man’ solidarity march from Aba to Government House, Umuahia.

Represented by Chief Ananaba, his deputy, Orji said the state government had started discussion with the Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr Olusegun Aganga, to reopen the bank.

He said the bank was closed down in the wake of kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.

The governor expressed the hope that the discussion would yield positive result, considering the great improvement on security of lives and property in the state.

He said the reopening of the bank would assist traders to access loans to boost their business at a reasonable interest rate.

Orji further said the proposed airport would help to revolutionise commercial activities.

He said the problem of power in the commercial city would become a thing of the past as soon as the Geometric Power Plant at Osisioma, near Aba, was inaugurated.

The governor enjoined the traders to sustain their support and loyalty to his administration “in the rain and under the sunshine’’.

Earlier, in an address, the Chairman of the traders association, Mr Lucky Akubueze, said the march was intended “to debunk the falsehood by mischief makers that Enyimba people are not happy with your administration’’.

“We are here to prove them wrong,’’ Akubueze said.

Akubueze said the governor had performed “excellently well’’ for the Aba business community by restoring peace and security in the city and other parts of the state.

He appealed to the governor to award the contract for flood control in the market to a competent construction outfit.

The chairman noted that flooding in the market was compounded by blocked drains, saying that the menace had destroyed goods worth millions of naira. (NAN)

I inherited a disunited Abia, but I've unified it, says Governor Orji .

Hate him or love him, one thing you can't take away is the fact that Governor Theodore Ahamefula Orji has laid the foundation for a new and united Abia State, where every Abian is a stakeholder. He has done what governors before him in God's Own State failed to do. He has not only liberated the state from the politics of family affairs, he has also united the state, and restore peace among political blocs in the state. He is busy laying foundation for the state, building infrastructures that were never existing in the state. Last week, the easygoing Governor Orji, played host to a team of THE UNION NEWSPAPER led by the Managing Director, OBI AZURU, the Managing Editor, OBED AWOWEDE and Senior Correspondent ENYINNAYA APPOLOS who were in the state. In an exclusive interview with THE UNION team, Governor Orji spoke on tropical issues in the state. The legacy projects that we have seen must be a very big dream, can you tell us how you come about them. I thank you very much. Legacy project as it is appropriately called, are projects that are foundational. They are projects that are essential. They are projects that will outlive us, projects that you and I will be remembered for. Abia State was created in 1991, and one naturally expects that as a new state, there should be foundational structures that should be on ground to enable the state to take off and rum well. Such projects like a befitting Government House, and a befitting state secretariat that will house all the civil servants and provide them with a conducive environment to do their work as the engine room of government, all these structures were lacking. But we have provided them. The hospitals and diagnostic centers, which provide service for the health of the people, these are the things that should be on ground for a state to be called state, if you go to other states, they are there, but here in Abia they're lacking, we don't have them. We have also provided them. When I came, I said; if I can lay the foundation for all these essential infrastructures that we are lacking, and put up a very solid foundation for Abia State, I will always be remembered, and that is why I embarked on laying foundation for the state by building government structures that were not here before, I call them foundational or legacy projects for the state. If I build a government house, the only thing the government after me will do will be to renovate it, same goes to the secretariat, these are the things we are doing in Abia. You've gone round and see for yourselves, the foundational projects that we are doing for Abia, not only in Umuahia the state capital, but across the entire state. So that is the dream I have which I am sure, I must achieve before I leave office in 2015. How are you able to do all these given the lean purse of Abia State, we understand that you've not taken any loan. That's a very good question. And this is one question every journalist that comes here ask me, after going round to see what we have done. They're surprise how we do it. The new market at Ubani cost the state N3.5 billion. My brothers, the magic we are doing here is prudent expenditure and managing the resources very well and use it for the welfare of the people. Get good contractors that don't charge you exorbitant prices, contractors that will do quality job, and you negotiate with them how you will lay them as the money comes, and they will do the job for you. I tried going to the bond market very early around 2008, but Abia people cried, by then I had a lot of people opposing me in the state, they opposed the idea of going to take loan, I said ok, I will not go there again, and I put a full stop to it and since then I've never tried it. So the money we have been using for the projects in the state are the resources that we get including our IGR (internally generated revenues), which have been struggling everyday for it to increase and it is increasing day by day. So the magic is due to prudent management of our resources. Tell us more about the insecurity that was a major issue that confronted the state, how did you attack it, and how have you been sustaining it? The magic we used in Abia to fight insecurity was determination, and being resolute in taking decisions. Security is a paramount duty of government, that is security of life and Property, any government that fails on this, is faced with problems. That was what we faced here, insecurity came from nowhere. Kidnaping, which we have not witnessed in Abia, became a major problem to the government especially in Aba, because of the wealth that is in Aba, the kidnappers concentrated there, and become a terror to the state. With kidnapping, all sort of criminality and armed robbery also came in, it was a major constraint to us at that time. As the governor, I am elected by the people, and it was my function to protect the live and property of my people, so I have to reorganize myself, got into partnership with the federal government, and then the job was done, today, the problem of insecurity as it were, is history. It is capitally intensive, and if I tell you how much we invested in security in Abia you will shudder. But we have to do it to make sure that my people are secured, and I am happy that the money I invested to fight insecurity is not a waste, because today you can see that Abia is one of the safest states in the country. I won't tell you that kidnapping has gone totally, but it is an occasional crime now in Abia and we are not relenting, we are still hunting after them, and it is because they know we are equal to the task, that is why it's now occasional and we are out to face them. We have done well in the area of security and that is why Abia is getting awards as one of the secured states in Nigeria today. Recently, you recalled non indigenes you sacked from the state civil services. Tell us about what informed the decision to recall them. I didn't sack them, what I did was to transfer their services to their various states of origin. Before doing that, I wrote their states executives, and told them about my constraint and what I want to do, and I didn't get any reply from any of the states executives of the affected states. Let me also put the record straight that what Abia did then, Abia was not the first to do that. There was a time the economy was bad and other neighboring states disengaged people who are not from their states but were working in the state civil service, we got our own people who were disengaged, some of them are still in services, while some have retired. I can call some of our people that were affected, some came back from Enugu, Anambra and Imo states, they're here. What those states did that time, was to cushion of the effect of the economy. People didn't know that our people in other states were also pushed to us, when our people returned to us, there was no agitation and we didn't make any noise about it, instead we took them and integrated them into the service here in Abia. Even our pension in Imo State, their files were brought to us without notification and we took their files and they are still here with us. When the federal government introduced the N18,000 minimum wage policy, we came back and calculated how much it will cost us, and we saw that we can't make it, when we looked into it, trying to find solution to the problem of minimum wage, idea came of what other states had done in the past, they said this is a period of peer review, and why not we try what others have tried and see if it will work for us, that was why we did that and in doing that we didn't sack anybody, we write their states, pleading with them to take their people into their states services and let us see how we can manage our people, and it worked for us because within that period we did it, till now, we maintained industrial harmony in the state. And don't forget that we are paying the highest minimum wage in the whole federation, we are paying N20,100 as minimum wage. Do you know that the total number of people we disengaged were 4000 workers, and we have recalled 2700 of them since the time the policy was introduced. Even at that, we have ask the remaining people who still want to come back to take advantage of this window and come back, we will take them back. What we have done is human and the right thing to do, especially when it has come to our notice that their state government have refused to take them, they should come and we are ready to take them. But one question we have continue to ask is; if when Abians were brought back to us and we took them in, why didn't the government of other states take their own people in, when they were sent to them? I can't understand whey they castigated me and played politics out of the matter. If I say look, I am saturated here, please try your state civil service let them engage you, if I have my people there, bring them back, already you've brought them back, but if there are remnant still bring them back, so that there will be equity in the whole thing. In the federation account, you get your share, we get our own, and my first priority is to take care of my people here. Now, I have called them back, who is a better person now? This is not politics and I have asked my people to out advert in the newspapers for people to see it, so that those who are willing to come back can apply, and we will take them. You talked about building an airport for Abia, considering the number of projects you have, also looking into the purse of the state, and with the fact that you don't have much time before 2015, how are you going to actualize the airport project. I will actualize the Abia Airport project the same way I have actualized others. But for the airport I want to be sincere to you, I may not finish it, considering the time factor, but my happiness will be to start it and see that the foundation has been laid. If we get the land, we will acquire it, pay compensation, clear the site and start skeletal structures, do all the paper work, get the permission and all that, that is something. But some people will argue that since there is an airport in Owerri, why do you need one in Abia. What is the basis of that argument. Do you know that majority of the people that use the Owerri airport are from Abia, and we want direct communication and contact, there many things to gain when you have an airport. It will boast the economy of the state, create employment and bring development. What is the southeast governors doing to ensure that people can fly into London, US and other parts of Europe from the Enugu International airport considering the number of our people that are in those areas. We are doing something to ensure that happens. Am you don't know what the southeast governors did for Ethiopian airline to come. We pleaded with President Jonathan to have an eye on Enugu airport to make it international and he has done it, and that is the first and foremost, that the President listened to us and paid attention to Enugu airport. All the planes will not come at once, there are rules and regulations, and we are following them one after the other. Today we have Ethiopian airline, others will come, so that people from the southeast will not go to Port Harcourt, Lagos or Abuja before traveling outside Nigeria. The southeast governors are not sleeping, we are working for the welfare of our zone. You said you had a lot of opposition in the state, which was one of the reason your attempt to take load was frustrated in your first tenure, now you appears to have the support of those you considered your opponents then, what did you do to get them to your side. The magic we did was to unify all Abians, not just the politics leaders, but every Abian, is because we ran an inclusive government. By the time I would have served out my tenure as governor, I want to be recognized by my state government, not jsut as a former governor, but as statesman. The recognition am talking about is to listen to me when I talk, to seek my opinion in things that are critical and to pay me respect. This was what we were lacking before I became governor, which annoyed a lot of Abia political stakeholders. It polarized the polity. Our people ran away, notable Abians absconded and had no interest in what was going on in the state. They were living in Abuja and Lagos and left the government and governance of the state, the consequences was grievous. I inherited that system, and I knew what I saw between 2007 to 2009, the old system in Abia affected me seriously, and it made me to rethink. I said no, Abia belong to every person, it is not my personal property, I am a governor by divine intervention and the will of the people, the longer I say her as governor is eight years, and another person will come. So I told myself that within this eight years I have to stay here, Abians must have a sense of belonging, they must know that the state belong to them, and I decided to open the doors of government to them. That I am the governor doesn't mean that I am the most intelligent person in Abia. I am intelligent, but I have to add the intelligence of others, so I seek the opinion of others, when you are taking decision about the state, you call stakeholders. It gives them joy that the governor called to seek their opinion in issue affecting the state. When you call the major stakeholders like Ike Nwachukwu, Onyema Ugochukwu, Adolph Wabara or any of them, and said this is what I want to do, what is your view, how do we do it, they will be happy that their governor is consulting them. If you want to make appointment, you don't give it to your mother or brother to write list of people you want to appoint for you, appointment is for everybody, you. You make your own input base in the antecedent of the people you want, then you give the major stakeholders the opportunity to make input. They have people that have the capacity to work, they will give suggestion about people they know will contribute to the governance of the state and you look I to that, take their candidate, and form your cabinet. But as the governor, you have the final say. You don't just because you're the governor, you write all the names of everybody that will be in the executive council, and if you look into it, you discover that most of those you brought in don't have the capacity to work, they have nothing to add, but you just put them there because you're governor, that is not how it is done. We have changed that system, what is happening in Abia now is that we consult everybody and give everybody the opportunity to make input. We running an inclusive government, that is what is happening now and that is why there is peace and unity in the state now. Go and ask those who were attacking me before, and hear what they will tell you about me now because the reality is clear and everything is now on ground. In this government, every Abian has a stake. We resolve that whatever we are doing here, we will invite our people and you will see the who is who in Abia in attendance. One of the legacy am leaving behind in Abia is the legacy of peace and unity, there will be no divide. The era of he is an Ukwa-Ngwa or old Bende man is gone, that divide I want to break it, even though it will still be there. What are the feedbacks you are getting from the youth empowerment programme you have been doing. I am getting very good feedback, wonderful feedback, and positive feedback. I want you to feel it by going into the street and ask those using the yellow taxi how they feel about our youth empowerment scheme. Not only in the area of giving out vehicles, we are training them, we have skill acquisition centres, the last time we graduated about 500 people that were trained in various skills that was in Umuahia alone, when they were graduating, money and equipments were given to them to start off. We encourage our youths to grow in their talent, your talent can die with you if you're not encouraged to grow it. That is why we are taken football very serious in the state, today Abia has two teams that will play in the Nigeria league, that is Enyimba of Aba and Warriors of Umuahia. When our youth are engaged, criminality will go, we are doing very well in youth empowerment and we shall continue with it. What are you doing in the are of encouraging investors in the state. We have an office that is in charge of helping investors in the state. If any investor comes to invest in the state, that office will help to ensure that the investors will not have problem in getting their Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) and other relevant things they need to start, so long as the investors do the right thing, because you cannot just come and say you're an investor and we listen to you. We had a nasty experience here, people came parading themselves as investors and ask for C of O we gave them they vanished. Amaokwe Housing estate and the market are typical examples, we learnt our lesson. What are you doing about the Golden Guinea breweries in Umuahia. I promised Abians that one of the things I will do is to revive Golden Guinea breweries in Umuahia, but then I hadn't gotten the details about the company. You know Golden Guinea is a Plc, is not owned solely by Abia, and for you to do anything there you have to follow due process. Somebody is there doing business, the only thing we can do as a government is to support him and we have told him that as a government, we will support him, we cannot for now, jump into it. What is your take on President Jonathan and 2015. President Jonathan has bright future in 2015. We expect that he will contest because it is his entitlement to complete his tenure. Though he has not said anything, but if he decides to run in 2015, Abia will support him for sure, I know that in the southeast he has a lot of followers and supporters. We expect him to run and complete his tenure because he has done well.

Governor Orji Inaugurates Committee to Tackle Erosion in Abia

The Abia State Governor, Theodore Orji, has inaugurated a five-man steering committee for the Abia -Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project, to address erosion menace and other forms of environmental degradation in the state.

Governor Orji while inaugurating the committee at the Exco Chamber, Government House, Umuahia, said the committee would collaborate with the federal government and international agencies in handling erosion intervention programmes in the state.

According to him, the Abia -Nigeria Erosion Watershed Management Project is a tripartite arrangement between federal, state governments and international agencies designed to tackle erosion menace and its devastating effects on the environment.

He said the committee would among other things ensure that erosion intervention projects meant for the state were properly executed to tackle erosion problems and urged members of the committee to exhibit diligence and prudence in the discharge of their duty.

Members of the committee, according to the governor, include the commissioner for environment who would serve as chairman, commissioners for Works, Finance, Urban Renewal and the Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency. He said that their selection was based on their individual antecedents.

He listed some of the foreign collaborating partners to include the International Development Association and the Global Environmental Facilities.

The governor who noted that erosion is a major environmental problem in many communities in Abia, said the affected communities are found in Isuikwuato, Umuahia North, Umuahia South, Bende, Aba North and other local government areas of the state.

He said that critical infrastructural facilities such as roads, rail tracks, schools, office blocks among others have fallen victims to erosion menace, adding that houses and vast arable lands have also been lost to erosion.

The Chairman of the committee and Commissioner for Environment, Chinwe Nwanganga, expressed the determination of the members to carry out the assignment in the overall interest of the state.

Mr. Nwanganga said five sites had been identified while approval had been given for work to commence on one of them, pointing out that three other sites would receive approval.

Anambra, Ebonyi, Imo, Enugu, Edo and Cross River states are participating in the project.

Nnaji Obed Asiegbu

SA e-Governance & Strategy to the Abia State Governor

http://allafrica.com/stories/201311281063.html

Governor Orji charges Naval Officers of Abia origin to be good Ambassadors

Abia State Governor, Chief Theodore Orji, has charged 21 officers of Abia origin who recently graduated from the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School, Onne, Rivers State, to be good ambassadors of the God’s Own State.

The governor who gave the charge when he received some members of the Batch 22 AK of the naval school at the Exco Chamber of Government House, Umuahia, implored them never to be involve in any coup plot to unseat a democratically elected government.

Governor Orji who enjoined the young officers to emulate the foot steps of the country’s present Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Azubuike Ihejirika, Gen. Ike Nwachukwu, Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe (rtd), Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (rtd), late Gen. Aguiyi Ironsi, said their enviable track records should guide them to achieve results in their career.

“I feel highly elated to receive you as we have you as our ambassadors in the navy. I know that not all that started the training programme finished with you. Abia is doing well and we will continue doing well. Hard work is key to success and we are building hopes on solid principles.

“You should count yourself as the best and you are our good ambassadors . Be good ambassadors of Nigeria and respect your seniors. Show this through the doggedness that is our trademark.

“The era of coup is gone. Your primary assignment is to protect all and provide security for our democracy,” he said.

Ocho Emmanuel who led the group, thanked the governor for his good works in the state. He promised that the set of officers would continue to do the state proud wherever they are posted.

I’m Trying to Lay a Solid Foundation for Abia- Gov. T.A Orji


The Abia State governor, Chief Theodore Orji, discusses his “legacy project” and his administration’s policies, in this interview with Tunde Rahman and Vincent Obia. Excerpts:

Your government has embarked on a number of projects, popularly called Legacy Projects. How are you sourcing the money for them?

We are not a rich state. But the thing is prudence in the management of the resources of the state.
I am not a businessman. I don’t have a company. It’s not my field. If I go into it, I would not do well. What I’m doing is what I know very well. Since I came out of the university this is what I have been doing, from the civil service till now: management of resources. The little that comes into your hands, use them very well for the benefit of the people. That is what I have been doing here.
Our civil servants are receiving the highest pay in Nigeria – N20, 100 monthly. Check if there is any other state paying that as minimum wage. That’s what we are paying, and we even paid arrears. We did not start paying minimum wage from the time we were able to pay it; we paid it from the time of implementation of the policy.
That is why we have industrial harmony here. During the commencement of the minimum wage, every other state in the South-east experienced strike by civil servants. It was only in Abia that the civil servants never went on strike, because I called them and told them, take it easy, whatever the federal government has decided, I would pay. They believed and trusted me and they never went on strike.
So we have been doing the projects with diligent management of the scarce resources that we get from internally generated revenue and the Federation Account. With what we are doing, making effort to increase our IGR, we are improving on daily basis.
If I have been able to sustain the minimum wage since the policy was introduced, then we will sustain any other thing we are putting on board. The projects we are doing are of high quality, no half measures. We choose the contractors that work for us, and they know what we want.

Can you mention some of these projects and their significance?
The projects are many. We are building a Government House. It is a legacy project. We are building a secretariat, e-library, a secretariat for the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, a secretariat for the Abia State Universal Basic Education Programme. We have built a complex comprising about 38 offices for the BCA.
In our diagnosis centre, we also have a dialysis centre, which was launched in July. We are also going to open the eye centre. We have bought the equipment, it has landed in Lagos. But they said we should model the building to suite the equipment that we have bought. By next month or thereabout, the equipment would arrive the state for installation.
We are building a 100-bed complex at General Hospital, Ama-Achara. In Arochukwu, Ohafia, Ugwa West local governments, we are building similar edifices. Also in Aba, Obingwa, etc.
We are not talking of schools we have built and renovated, or the many roads scattered across the local government areas of the state.
We are giving preference to Aba because Aba is the headache that we have. We are now working on Ngwa road in Aba. We are reconstructing the road.
We have built a new market and convinced the traders, and on their own, happily, they moved. Change is difficult to accept. But traders who are used to staying in Umuahia, the centre of the town, have moved,
We want to change the face of the capital city. People come to Umuahia, they see the old market, they don’t go to Ogurube Layout, and when they return home, they say, this place is still like that. Even if we don’t put anything on ground in the place where the market was, if you come to Umuahia now, you have beautiful scenery.

Have you been able to move your IGR to a level that matches what you get from the Federation Account? And are you sure you can complete these Legacy Projects in your tenure, given the level of work that still needs to be done?

That is a commitment that I have made, to complete these legacy projects. The ones I may not complete, perhaps, the airport that I want to start, any person coming after me can undertake that. But projects like the International Conference Centre, e-library, secretariat, BCA, etc, I intend to complete. From about February next year, what we are going to undertake is commissioning, commissioning, commissioning.
On the IGR, when I came here, I meet a monthly IGR of between N200 million and N250 million monthly. Abia State of all places, N250 million a month. But today, the difference is clear. We are moving towards the billions.
You know our people naturally hate tax. And Aba, where we should get the greatest income, is no man’s land. There are all manners of people there. What we are trying to do is to instill discipline in them, to change their psyche so that they can appreciate government and assist government. If we succeed in that, we will get whatever we want from there. And we are succeeding.

At the new market in Ubani, some of the traders raised concerns about security, because the place is far from the town, lack of water, fire service, and banks. How are you addressing these?
You would expect this from somebody who is making a change. When they were here, was security superb for them? It is the same security arrangement that was here that has been carried over to that place. When they were here, they made the security arrangement by themselves. There is a market management committee they have among themselves. It is that same security apparatus that was carried to that place, plus an additional one provided by government.
If you looked around, you would see security posts and fire service centre there. The only one we have not overcome is water. This is because it is difficult to get water there due to the topography. That is why we have said we will be bringing water to fill overhead tanks in the place until we are in a position to reticulate water from the stream close to the place.
We are conscious of the security needs and we have made arrangement for security. Since they went there, has anybody told you they have stolen their goods or that somebody has died? No.
There is a hospital, school, and housing estate there. What we are doing is to expand this city. The same thing is happening where we have the industrial market. The place is becoming a new town.
These things are not easy, but I’m happy that God is helping us, and we are succeeding.

There appears to be a general water problem in Umuahia. What are you doing to address this?
We are conscious of that, but that of Ubani, where the market is, is a totally different issue. It is difficult to sink a borehole there. We have a regional water scheme in Unuahia. We draw water from Onimo, filter it, and pump it to the station in Umuopara, which pumps it to the town. But our people have not been fair. They continue to vandalise the equipment. They have vandalised the generator set we bought for the station. But we are fighting them. The Commissioner for Public Utilities has told me that water will soon start running because we have made the necessary arrangement. We have repaired the equipment and bought the damaged materials. We are reticulating and re-piping because road construction has damaged some of the pipes. So we are tackling the problem.

What do you plan to do at the site of the old market?

We are going to put a structure there that would be beneficial to people of all classes and ages. The structure also will enhance the aesthetics of this city. I have asked town planners to give me drawings of an ideal thing we will put there. Be rest assured that what we will put there is something every person would like to behold. That is before May 29, 2015.

What informed your decision to undertake the huge investment in the diagnostic centre in Umuahia?

If you want to build a house, the house must have a quality foundation so that any other thing you put on top of it will stand. And it will protect every other thing that is inside the house. If the foundation is weak, and there is a heavy downpour, the house would collapse and people in the house would die and you will start again.
If you have this scenario in your mind, you can understand what informed what I’m doing.
I didn’t see a solid foundation in Abia State when I came on board. A state that was created in 1991; yet no Government House, no state secretariat, no conference centre, no diagnostic centre. I’m talking about the basic ones. No good e-library. No modern market, everything was congested in the town here.
These are basic things that had been in existence in other states that were created when Abia was created.
First, you have to have a secretariat for your civil servants, who are the engine room of your government. You have to provide for them for them to give you the best. You have to cater for the basic health needs of the people because you will be happy to be a governor of healthy people, not a governor of unhealthy or dead people. You have to have a conference centre because people will come to Abia to discuss. We must have a decent place where they can do that. You have to have guest houses; it’s not every time visitors come that you put them in hotels.
These are the basic things and I know that once they are on ground, you can then talk of other things about governance. Since these were not on ground, it becomes my responsibility to put them on the ground, lay the foundation, and if I still have the time, start building. Then wherever I stop, another person will come in. But there must be a solid foundation. Laying this foundation is what has informed the things I’m doing.

What are you doing to encourage the private sector and to restore the age-long culture of ingenuity to the state, especially, places like Aba?

Aba before the war was noted for many things. Their industriousness and hard work are still there. But during my own time, Aba and Abia had the challenge of kidnapping. Because of the commercial nature of Aba, wealthy people live there and it is a busy place, kidnappers concentrated in Aba. That affected the growth of the city, as many people ran away. Entrepreneurs ran away, factories closed, and banks closed. That drew Aba back for some time.
But because of our doggedness and the mercy of God, we were able to overcome that. I recognise that it was a major challenge. It is human beings that would develop a place and if they run away, who will come and develop it? I went to Aba during the kidnapping saga and it was empty, like a war-torn area.
Today, however, Aba is booming again. When we controlled the security situation of the place, people started coming back.
On the issue of orientation, we are trying to let the people understand that Aba is still what it used to be. Today, the Nigerian Breweries is undertaking an expansion project in Aba worth N18 billion. An economic summit will hold in Aba tomorrow (November 20). The essence is to attract people, tell entrepreneurs that Aba is still what it used to be. Today also, Greenfield, a private investor we are partnering with, is building a shopping mall at Osisioma.
What we are doing is to make the environment conducive for people to come and invest. Once you provide security, repair the roads, supply electricity, in fact, put in place infrastructure, those who want to invest would come.
We have Geometrics and NIPP all coming on board because of Aba. When these things come on stream, Aba will continue to boom. And we have also the ingenuity of the people. Aba is the only place where there is no unemployment. Any person you see in Aba is doing something – he is either plying a trade or learning a trade.

What economic empowerment programmes do you have for the low-income people?

During the era of kidnapping, when the people ran away, their apprentices also ran away. Most of them were tempted to go into criminality. We realised it was good to empower the people, especially, the youths, and we started this empowerment programme, giving out things that you can use to make money.
So far, we have given out 720 vehicles, thousands of tricycles and sowing machines. Last year, I gave N60 million each to the chairmen of the 17 local government areas in the state to build skills acquisition centres in their local governments to train people. They did it. We have one at Ogurube Layout, built by my wife. The other time 302 people graduated from there and they were given equipment and money. We are encouraging people to establish businesses.

You recently reversed your policy of indigenisation of the civil service, citing increment in IGR, not long after it was started. Don’t you think the rapidity of the U-turn is an indication that the policy was not properly thought out from the beginning?

No. I don’t play politics with the welfare of the people. I am sincere. We know very well that it is not every person that would have the courage to do the indigenisation. Just like it is not every person that would have the courage to relocate the market from Umuahia. I believe in what I will do and have peace with myself.
Talking about indigenisation, this state is not the first to do that. Imo State did it, Enugu State did it, Anambra State did it, Ebonyi State did it. We have living evidence, people who were disengaged, who came back to Abia. That time people didn’t make noise about it. I was in government then. I was Chief of Staff here when those people who were disengaged came and they were all reabsorbed. I don’t know if anybody wrote about it. May be journalists were not very sensitive to issues as at that time.
There was something that made these states to do that. It was economic hardship. We didn’t bother when Boko Haram came and our people had to return home, we were reengaging them, with our people in the civil service, including non-indigenes. We didn’t have any problem until the minimum wage came. When I the accountants gave me the statistics of what it would take us to sustain the minimum wage I saw that we could not carry the burden. It was impossible for us to carry the burden. If we had tried to, we would have industrial unrest here everyday. Then the major headlines would be we are not able to pay salaries. But I didn’t want that. You cut your coat according to your cloth. We have to be sincere.
Why are organisations disengaging people? It’s because they don’t have the capacity to carry those people along. You employ the number you can cater for.
So when we were thinking about this, people brought this idea, that this was what some states did. And it took me time to undertake that policy because I knew the implication.

Would you say your government has enjoyed significant benefits from the indigenisation policy?

We did it and it worked for us. Like I told you, we are paying the highest minimum wage in the country. Check out in the country if all the states have started paying minimum wage. But we are paying the highest and we have paid arrears. There is industrial harmony here. Their entitlements are paid.
Like I told you, our IGR is picking up. I then decided that since the IGR is picking up, and I’m working as per what we have, it is good to bring this people back to service.
When the other states did their own, we reabsorbed all our people. Now when we did our own, how many people have been reabsorbed in their states’ services? So who loves the people more? Is it not myself who said, go and let me try to get some things and now that I’m okay, come back?

Were the other South-east states’ governments informed before your announcement of the indigenisation policy?

Actually, when we decided to do the indigenisation, I wrote to all the governors of the South-east saying, please, this is my predicament; I want a way out of it. No suggestion came. I had expected them to do what we did when our people were disengaged: reabsorb the people in their different states. But some of them started to play politics with it so as to brand me a wicked person while they are the angels. But today, we know those who are the angels and the wicked people.

How many of the previously disengaged workers have returned?

What we have done is to set up a committee, which is articulating how they are going to come back. Once we are ready, they will apply. From the applications we would know the number that would come back. Many would be happy to come back while others may have found something else to do.
Who is the kind man and who is the wicked one. If an indigene of your state is disengaged and you cannot reabsorb the person, yet you are talking everyday. After all, we receive our allocations, which are meant for the welfare of our own people. I had expected the states to take in most of them. But they left them, and I’m taking them back.

‘Majority Of Abians Are Happy With What Orji Is Doing’ Eze Nnamdi Ofoegbu, the Diawa of Umudiawa Ancient Kingdom in Umuahia North Council of Abia State, who is also the National Chairman of Christian Traditional Rulers Association of Niger Delta, recently spoke to journalists on Abia politics and development, saying Governor Theodore Orji is doing well, contrary to allegations of non-performance in some quarters. GODWIN IJEDIOGOR was there and reports. WE know that modern-day traditional rulers must not be permanently domiciled in their domains, but some people might still see you as one of those monarchs in the Diaspora. How do you rule your kingdom from Lagos or elsewhere? I am based at home; my palace is at home, in my domain, I only visit Lagos, Abuja and London and other liaising offices from time to time to meet and interact with my people and know how there are faring. So, I am not in the Diaspora; I am in my domain and rule from my domain, not from outside. How often do you visit or are at home? I just came to Lagos a few days ago. I live in my palace and visit Lagos and others places to see my subjects and know how there are doing. Without bias, how would you rate the performance of your kinsman, Governor Theodore Orji? I believe he is doing very well and utilising his divine mandate, in terms of infrastructural development, youth empowerment, among others, considering that the way he was elected into office in the first place and got re-elected despite the obstacle in his way. In 2005, God told me, and I told him, that he was going to be governor of the state at a time that seemed impossible, but also told him the hurdles ahead. Also in 2009, God told me to gather traditional rulers in the state and tell him that he was going to be re-elected and under a different party platform, and it came to pass. Now, God has told me who his successor is going to be and I have told him so. He is giving the youths a sense of belonging by provide them the resources to start off in life and consolidate on what they are doing, while also creating jobs and providing conductive environment for youth entrepreneurs to spring forth. The governor is equally giving financial assistance to the adults to take advantage of their comparative advantages in palm oil, cocoa, cassava production by establishing mills and processing plants in those areas to boost their individual and the state’s economy. He is also empowering the traditional rulers and giving them a sense of belonging in the governance of the state. How come then some people in the state are saying he is not performing? Everybody cannot be happy with what he is doing. Not everybody was happy with Jesus Christ while he was performing miracles on earth. So, it is normal for some people to say he is not performing, because no man on earth can satisfy human beings. The opposition might even make you to know the areas you have not covered and do more. I know for sure that majority of Abians are happy with the governor and what he is doing in the state. Because of this, our people have given him our mandate to represent us, Abia Central, in 2015 in the senate. Must it be him? Can’t it be somebody else, given that he must have been governor for eight years by then and being in government for over 12 years? Is he and is that decision the best for Abia Central? We know our sons and daughters. We traditional rulers know them and what they can do. We know those who have failed us and those who can fail us. We know those who are after their pockets and those who are for the interest of the public. That is why we are asking him to represent us in 2015, based on his performances. But some indigenes and residents of Aba, for instance, say the basic infrastructures and dilapidated and it as if there is no government in the state? I was born in Aba and I was there two weeks ago. Outsiders may not understand the practical issues regarding situation in Aba. Aba is over-crowded; it is a small land choked up with people, and whatever you sink into Aba may not be felt or noticed, because Aba was not properly planned or designed. Aba people themselves have not and are not giving the governor the chance to develop the place, because each time government wants to do something, some people would plan to thwart government’s efforts. Each time contractors mobilise to site, some people would hatch plans to frustrate them or kidnap one of the workers. The same thing when some investors want to establish something there. It is his detractors that are at work there, but the governor is not discouraged; he is still striving to do more, including in the area of roads construction. He has even done the market for them and given them a sense of belonging. Many Nigerians see traditional rulers as supportive of any government in power, hardly telling those in government the truth, but just what they want to hear. Does the governor listen to you and have you ever told him and can you face him and tell him the truth? We are not praise-singers; we only commend those that do well and urge them to do more, while thumping down those that are not doing well. For example, we had been clamouring for the relocation of the major market in Umuahia from the city centre to allow development to come to the town, because of the problems, including traffic bottlenecks, its location there had created. No government in the state listened to us until Orji came to power and did it. In Abia State, we don’t have a hotel of international standard where foreigners and even our local businessmen can stay if they visit the state for any important event. We don’t even have an airport in the state. The same site remained in rubbles as at three weeks ago, with nothing tangle done about the debris, and some of the traders have relocated to the border community in Imo State, just across the river. So, how has the demolition of the market benefitted Abia State? It is only a few of the traders that are there; it is just a distraction by the opposition. The Abia State government has built a modern market at Ubani and the traders were expected to relocate there, which is not far from the former one, and buses were provided to make transportation easy for the traders and customers, thereby bring development to that area. The few of them that initially went to build or rent shops across the bridge have started returning to the new market, because they are facing reality, considering the topography of the area. It is on the main road and a trap. In no time, that place will be deserted. So, it was a temporary measure and as I speak, so many of them have gone to Ubani. What are the things you would want the governor to do to bring further development to the state, since you said he is already doing so well? He should continue to do the good works he has started and continue to consult the traditional rulers where and when necessary. Abians are happy with him. I have been opportuned to see the previous governments and know the difference, based on the resources available to them at the different times. We want him to give us a standard hotel and an airport. But the Owerri airport is not too far. Why have another in Abia State and do you think it will be viable? It will be viable because of the high number of people from Abia State travelling through the airports, especially the Owerri airport. How do you feel regarding the sour relationship between former, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, and the present governor? Have you traditional ruler tried to reconcile them? We have interacted with them and were told it is just a political disagreement and nothing personal and we cannot duel deep into politics. I have spoken to both of them and I know, with the intervention of God, they will soon be reconciled. You are a businessman, a traditional ruler and a “man of God.” How do you combine all these and avoid a clash of interests? Ideally, traditional rulers are religious leaders, and you can find that working out well in the northern part of the country. Even in the Bible, the early kings were also religious leaders of their domains. So, there is no conflict among the three positions or interests. What is the National Chairman of Christian Traditional Rulers Association of Niger Delta all about? The essence of the association is forge a front to move the Niger Delta to a greater height, the region having being in crises and faced degradation by the oil companies and marginalisation by successive Nigerian governments, despite accounting for over 80 per cent the country’s foreign earnings because of its oil and gas endowments. We, the traditional rulers of the area, feel the pains of our people and think something should be done to ameliorate the suffering of our people. THE GUARDIAN

The Federal Government today flagged off the reconstruction of PortHarcourt Enugu Express Road (Abia State Section) for the sum of 50 Billion Naira. The contract for the reconstruction of this strategic highway is awarded to the Arab Contractors. We thank Mr. President for extending his transformation agenda to Abia State. Just like Oliver Twist, Governor T.A. Orji requested that the Minister should direct the contractors handling the Arochukwu Ohafia Express Road back to site now that the raining season is over.

South-East/South-South Agree to Hold Summit on Economic Growth

Abia State Governor, Chief Theodore Orji, was among the governors of the South-East/South-South who unanimously agreed to organise a summit of stakeholders from the two zones, which, is aimed at engendering economic growth and development.

Other governors that attended the meeting which took place at the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia, Awka, include Governors Peter Obi (Anambra), Sullivan Chime (Enugu), Liyel Imoke (Cross River), Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom), Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta); and Ebonyi State Deputy Governor, Dave Umahi.

Senator Imoke who addressed journalists after the closed door meeting which lasted for hours, said the summit scheduled for the first week of January, 2014, would attract prominent leaders form the South-East/South-South zones.

According to him, the planned summit would offer a platform for the cross-fertilisation of ideas and inputs on common needs of the zones. He said that the ultimate aim of engendering economic and other activities that would be to the greater glory of the country.

@ Face and co ,you guys are behind time and do not even know the nitty -gritty of democracy let alone what needs to be done,as for T.A has has out-shined and outworked all the governors who were there before him,all eyes could see what he ahs done so far and i strongly believe in him,he will do more,so people like you do not give him headache

We will consolidate on Abia achievements – Chikamnayo


Abia State Commissioner for Information, Dr Eze Chikamnayo, speaks with POLITICS EDITOR, Daniel Kanu, on what the administration is doing to turn around the state. Excerpts:

You were recently re-appointed into the state cabinet. How do you feel?

First, I want to thank God who has made it possible for me to be alive up till this moment as well as Governor Theodore Orji, whose benevolence and vision got me on board. I don’t have enough adjectives to capture the quantum of my gratitude to God and the governor for the privilege of serving my people at this momentous epoc of Abia development, at a time when Abia is witnessing a complete re-birth, at a time when new foundations have been laid and the new Abia is being built at a very astronomical pace. At a time when there is peace and justice and stability and progress and prosperity in the state. This is a time when you look at the faces of Abia people and you see smiles, you see satisfaction, you see people that are actively involved in the development of their state. So, it is a great privilege and honour to be part of the Ochendo Global team that is making a whole lot of difference in the polity of Abia State.



Specifically, what do we expect in your new coming?

It is to consolidate and accentuate all the positive achievements we have made already in the area of designation of information and ensuring that the feedback mechanism is not hindered in any way. That is, the communication from government to the people and from the people back to government is handled in the best of standards. Here in Abia State, we are not just talking to the people as a Ministry of Information but we also through our various information agencies feel the pulse of the people, gather information and make goverrnment aware of it and ensure they are attended to. We will always ensure that the feedback mechanism is made more functional and effective. We will also ensure that the good interpersonal relations between the governor, government and the people is sustained.



By implication, you are satisfied with the performance of the state helmsman?

As a matter of fact, never in the history of the state has a governor been so much in touch with his people as the case of Governor T.A.Orji. He has the very wonderful gift of being able to reach out to every segment of the society and we will ensure that through our own media we are able to continue to sustain this great achievement of the government, informing and educating the people. Then of course we have a government that is rounding off its tenure. In the next few months, the governor will be successfully and resoundingly leaving the scene in a blaze of glory having achieved so much. Our duty will also be to document for posterity most of his achievements and make sure that we have valid documents, print, electronics etc to showcase this epoch and make sure posterity is reminded of the high points of the Ochendo golden era.

Government Special Announcement


The following House Officers have been approved by His Excellency- Chief T.A.Orji Ochendo to start their Housemanship from 1st of December 2013.

1. Dr. Idika Otunwa

2. Dr. Uka William

3. Dr. Ochulo Abraham

4. Dr. Oririuwa Ikechi

5. Dr. Nwogu Chinwotuto

6. Dr. Ahuwara Ezema Julius

7. Dr. Emerole Chidozie Peter

8. Dr. Eze Kezito Chinazo

9. Dr. Obikpe Ebere

10. Dr. Onyeze Chigbundo

11. Dr. Onwukwe Arinze

12. Dr. Nkem Jacob

13. Dr. Onumadu Ijeoma Elaine

14. Dr. Okunamiri Sullivan

15. Dr. Uwaga Chiedozie Henry

16. Onuoha Nwachukwu



They are to report to the Chief Medical Director on Tuesday, 26th November 2013 at the Abia State Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Centre, Aba Road by 12 noon for further instructions.



Charles Ajunwa,

Chief Press Secretary

to the Executive Governor.

RECENTLY, THE GOVERNOR OF ABIA STATE, CHIEF T. A ORJI, RECALLED NON-INDIGENES INTO THE STATE PUBLIC SERVICE . IN THIS NEWS COMMENTARY, CHUKS IBEGBU , A PUBLIC AFFAIRS ANALYST LOOKS INTO THE IMPLICATION OF THIS EDIFYING DECISION.
A time comes when a statesman exhibits those attributes that endear him to the people despite the difficult and surrounding circumstances. Some years ago , Abians in some neighouring Igbo states were sacked by the governments of those states from their public service simply because they did not hail from those states. Many of those Abians had put up more than twenty years in the service of those states. They were denied their entitlements and benefits. Under such shocking circumstances, the Governor of Abia State, Chief T.A. Orji , after a sober reflection decided to re-absorb the sacked Abians and acted like a statesman by contacting the Governors of the neigbhouring Igbo and other states to create openings for their own people working in Abia public service. They were subsequently disengaged.
The purpose then was to create openings for the sacked Abians from those neigbhouring states in the Abia public service. There was undue uproar and villifications from fifth columnists as if it started from Abia State. When the other states did the same thing, these fifth columnists did not raise any eyebrow. But in the spirit of God's Own State and to show unparalleled example Governor T.A. Orji decided to recall the disengaged non-indigenes. This commendable act should be emulated by other neighbouring states that did the same thing in the past.
By so doing , the much needed Igbo unity and solidarity being championed by Governor T.A. Orji would become a reality. The affected workers should also redouble their efforts when they finally resume to increase productivity and re-position Abia State as the number one state in Nigeria. Abia is for all Igbos and Nigerians as this act has shown.
Governor Orji has by this magnanimous act buried the trauma of indigene versus non-indigene saga which actually started from neighbouring Igbo states. These states should also take a cue from Abia State and recall all Abians and other Igbos they sacked in their state public service some years ago or pay them their requisite entitlements.

IMPUNITY OF THE HIGHEST ORDER

FR. ADC – EXEC. GOVR. IMO STATE TO COMPOL ABIA STATE INFO. COMPOL OWERRI IMO STATE SVC. X VIP MOVEMENT X THE NIGERIA RESCUE MISSIONARIES SOUTH/SOUTH AND SOUTH/EAST X GRATEFUL BE INFORMED THAT X H/E. OWELLE ANAYO ROCHAS OKOROCHA (OON, SAM) X THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF IMO STATE X WILL BE ATTENDING THE OFFICIAL INAUGURATION OF THE NIGERIA RESCUE MISSIONARIES SOUTH/SOUTH AND SOUTH/EAST CAUCUS X ON 12TH OCT. 2013 BEING SATURDAY X VENUE X ABIA POLY., ABA X TIME X 11.00HRS. KINDLY PROVIDE 120 POLICE X SECURITY AT THE VENUE X TO ENSURE A HITCH – FREE CEREMONY X FOR YOUR INFO. AND ACTION. PLSE ACCEPT THE HIGHEST REGARDS OF H\E . X THE GOV. OF IMS. X TREAT AS VERY IMPORTANT PLS. Bleep Bleep THI. 101300HRS. IMMED. ADC – GOVR. IMS.

The quick telegram (though sent as SMS) above was sent by the ADC to Rochas Okorocha on the 11th of October, 2013 to the Deputy Commissioner of Police Abia State. This is barely 24 hours to their much planned “inauguration of Nigeria Rescue Missionaries south/south and south /east caucus (we didn’t know churches also devolve into caucuses).
Abians woke up on Sunday morning inundated with news about how police aborted “Rochas Okorocha’s birthday” in Abia. Ordinarly, one would have treated that piece of information from APC crony tabloids as another wild goose chase, but for the sake of Abians and indeed our Imo brothers who still believe in the truth, this explanation will go along way.
1. Rochas Okorocha hiding under the cloak of NIGERIA RESCUE MISSIONARIES ABIAS STATE CHAPTER applied for the use Abia State Polytechnic (see letter attached) Pavillion “for Christian gathering which will attract dignatries from South – East, South – South including Governors”
2. Rochas Okorocha did not have the courtesy of informing his brother Governor that he planned to visit his State for whatever reason.
3. As if that was enough, his ADC; against all ethics and norms of good conduct sent a text message to a Deputy Commissioner of Police casually requesting for 120 policemen, less than 24 hours to the time
4. Because Rochas and his colleague “Missionaries” had ulterior motives, they circumvented due procedure in Abia State Polytechnic and got approval.
5. In the letter cancelling the use of the venue (see attached), the Rector of the Polytechnic regrettably informed them, “the Acting Students Union President who one of your female officials chose to deal with has informed me that they had told you it would disrupt their exam but you ignored her advice”.
6. When students saw the massive mounting of canopies and decorations (with APC colors and logo), presence of massive musical equipment within the school pavilion and field; they alerted the school authorities. The Students Union Government of Abia State Polytechnic wrote to the school on “Disruption of our second semester examinations”.
7. It is important one looks at the scenario that played out. You will judge how it was Abia State Government that disrupted “Rochas Okorocha’s birthday celebrations”.
8. Rochas did not, either in writing or text inform His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Abia State that he was coming to Abia for whatever purpose.
9. By the time, Rochas informed the Police through his ADC, they (Rochas and his ‘birthday’ organizers) had concluded arrangements including, but not limited to preparing the venue and informing his members in Abia State.
10. The Abia State Government may be the owners of Abia State Polytechnic but do not get involved in petty matters like who uses their space.
11. It was therefore unfair to have dragged the State Government’s name over an issue that bordered largely on Rochas OKorocha’s idea of always playing smart with everything.
12. His cronies sought for ‘prayers’, he planned for ‘Birthday’ ceremony. Somebody should tell them that God is not mocked
13. While one can imagine his other ulterior motives, it is foolhardy for anyone to think that one who sets out to deceive could get a better treatment.
14. May be Rochas wanted the Police in Abia to fold their hands and watch him cause chaos.
15. May be Rocahs wanted the students (they started second semester exams amid the Polytechnic strike for over one week before that event) allow Rochas and his “prayer warriors” to disrupt their exams.
16. Abians are wiser and know more than the cheap blackmail being sponsored by Rochas Okorocha.
17. We wonder why Abia is the most suitable place for him to celebrate his “birthday”
18. We wonder why he was not proud and courageous enough to inform the relevant authorities that he was the person referred to in the letter as “South/South and South East Governors”.
19. We know that Rochas is crazy about his “Rescue Mission”, but he would realize that Abia is peaceful and secured the way it is and would not be enlisted into any wild goose chase.
20. The last time we checked, neither the Chairman of Christian Association of Nigerian, his PFN counterpart on any other religious leader was notified of this “prayer” that would attract dignitaries from within and around the country.
21. Somebody should remind Rochas Okorocha that campaigns have not started, at least in Abia. He should wait until time for campaigns for him to that his false might on Abia State.
22. We know that he has vowed to capture (whatever that means) Abia. He should go about it in the most decent and legal manner. Abia State has no room for Chief Executives who want to sneak in using deceitful identifications as he did during Ojukwu’s burial, importing over 2,000 youths from Imo State to assault a sitting Governor.
We are 22 years and would stop at point 22.

Cosmos Ndukwe
Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor

Full list of new Abia State commissioners and their portfolios :

1.
Dr. Okechukwu Ogah
Health


2.
Ikechukwu Emesobum
Transport

3
Emma Nwabuko
Local Govt./Chieftaincy Affairs

4. ,
Dr. Kenneth Nwosu
Agriculture

5.
Prince Longman Mwachukwu
Works

6.
Chief David Chigbu
Sports

7.
Mrs. Nwogu Chidinma
Science/Technology

8.
Mrs. Ngozi Orji
Youth Development

9.
Hon. (Mrs) Nne Nwajike
4.
Women Affairs

10.
Barr. Emenike Kalu
Public Utilities

11.
Elder Godwin Nna
Physical Planning/Urban Renewal

12.
Hon. K. 0. Mgbahuru
Housing

13 Chief Chinwe Nwanganga
Environment

14.
Hon. Chisom Nwanmuo
Commerce/Industry

15.
Chief Don Ubani S Petroleum Resources

16.
Dr. Monica Philips
Education

17. | Elder Onwuka Uzoma
Culture/Tourism

18.
Barr. James Okpara
Legal Matters/Due Process

19,
Eboh Duke Okorie
Lands/Survey

20.
Hon. Sampson Orji
Special Duties (Gov's Office)

21.
Barr. Umeh Kalu
Attorney-General/Commissioner for Justice

22.
Hon. Eze Chikamnayo
Information/Strategy

23. | Engr. Solomon Adaelu
Poverty Reduction/Rural Development

24. Dr. Phiiip Nto ,commissioner Finance

A SPEECH PRESENTED BY HIS EXCELLENCY, CHIEF T. A. ORJI (OCHENDO), GOVERNOR ABIA STATE, ON THE OCCASION OF THE SWEARING-IN CEREMONY OF 24 NEW HONORABLE COMMISSIONERS OF ABIA STATE GOVERNMENT AND MEMBERS OF THE STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, HOLDING AT THE MICHAEL OKPARA AUDITORIUM, UMUAHIA, ON THE 8™ OCTOBER, 2013 PROTOCOLS DISTINGUISHED LADIES AND GENTLEMEN! I have the pleasure to be here today to perform this ceremony of swearing-in our new Commissioners of Government and members of our State Executive Council. I know that many of you have waited anxiously for this day, and I am glad that we are finally concluding this exercise - so that we can move forward with members of the Executive Council in addressing the important issues and challenges that face our State. As you are all aware, we are now in the mid-session of our second tenure in office. We have before us, many urgent challenges arising from the committed pursuit of our legacy projects, as well as the inevitable pressures of the politics of the future. But we need not be derailed in our resolve to delivering the dividends of democracy to Abians. It is therefore necessary that we face all these challenges with the support and expertise of our best, devoted and loyal citizens, who also fully represent the aspirations and support of our citizens and major stakeholders’ throughout the three Senatorial Zones of our State. These have partly informed our choices in selecting our new Commissioners being sworn-in today. We have also been very intensive in selecting the list of men and women that we swear-in today to ensure they meet our criteria of a gender sensitive Administration, experience and notable ability to perform under pressure. As usual, any lobbyists or godfathers beyond the general interests of our people have foisted no one who made the list of Commissioners on me. I therefore expect that those we have selected to serve will give their best to the entire State. In your various portfolios, we expect you to serve with integrity, devotion, loyalty and accountability. It is our expectations that you will provide fresh ideas and new drive to support our Government in consolidating our legacy projects, building a sustainable foundation of our economy, and moving the politics of Abia State to the next level of humility, justice and harmony as you serve our citizens. The new Commissioners we are swearing-in today are as Name Office Contact Information Chief (Sir) Don Ubani Commissioner for Petroleum donubani@abiastate.gov.ng Dr. Kenneth Nwosu Commissioner for Agriculture kennethnwosu@abiastate.gov.ng Engr. Emma Nwabuko Commissioner for Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs nwabuko.e@abiastate.gov.ng Dr. Mrs. O. M. Philips Commissioner for Education m.philips@abiastate.gov.ng Barr. Emelike Kalu Commissioner for Public Utilities emelikekalu@abiastate.gov.ng Eboh Duke I. Okorie Commissioner for Lands ebohokorie@abiastate.gov.ng Engr Ikechukwu Emesobom Commissioner for Transport emesobum@abiastate.gov.ng Hon. K. O. Mgbeahuru Commissioner for Housing mgbeahuru@abiastate.gov.ng Prince Emeka Nwachukwu (Longman) Commissioner for Works emeka.n@abiastate.gov.ng David Chigbu Monday Commissioner for Sports davidchigbu@abiastate.gov.ng Mrs. Nwogu Chidinma Florence Commissioner for Science and Technology nwoguchidinma@abiastate.gov.ng Dr. O. S. Ogah Commissioner for Health ogah.s@abiastate.gov.ng Engr. Solomon Adaelu Commissioner for Rural Development and Poverty Reduction solomonadaelu@abiastate.gov.ng Mrs Ngozi Orji Commissioner for Youth Development orjingozi@abiastate.gov.ng Dr. Philip Nto Commissioner for Finance ntophilips@abiastate.gov.ng Mrs. Nne Nwaejike Commissioner for Women Affairs nnenwaejike@abiastate.gov.ng Elder Godwin Nna Commissioner for Physical/Urban Planning nnagodwin@abiastate.gov.ng Chinwe Nwanganga Commissioner for Environment Chinwe.n@abiastate.gov.ng Barr. James Okpara Commissioner for Legal and Due Process jamesopkara@abiastate.gov.ng Barr. Umeh Kalu Commissioner for Justice umehkalu@abiastate.gov.ng Chisom Nwamuo Commissioner for Commerce and Industry chisomnwamuo@abiastate.gov.ng Hon. Sampson Orji Commissioner for Special Duties (Governor's Office) sampson.o@abiastate.gov.ng Mr. Eze Chikamnayo Commissioner for Information and Strategy ezechikamnayo@abiastate.gov.ng Elder Onwuka Uzoma Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Onwuka.u@abiastate.gov.ng I want to remind the new Commissioners that your assignment will be especially challenging, as we seek to accomplish most of our projects and other commitments under a disciplined financial regime and urgency, especially as the seasons of expectations of our citizens, active politics and elections fever begin to emerge. I therefore urge all those sworn-in today to bring with them the desirable winning attitude, ingenuity and deep insight in the handling of your various difficult assignments. These are the only ways you can assist our Government leave a desired legacy of service in Abia State, while also endearing yourselves with our citizens. I congratulate all the Commissioners we swear-in today and your families and wish all of you a very successful tenure. Thank you and God bless Abia State! http://www.abiastate.gov.ng/news/a-speech-delivered-by-h-e-t-a-orji-at-the-swearing-in-ceremony-of-the-new-commissioners

H.E. T.A. Orji swears in new commissioners today. Congratulations to some of my big friends and allies that got appointed & reappointed, you all got my best wishes. Please work hard and get things done well. Good name is better than stolen money.

Gov.T A Orji's Achievements'll Ensure Abia PDP's Victory - Umeh Kalu. Former Abia state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Chief Umeh Kalu, said he was confident Governor Theodore Orji's sterling performance and his ability to unify the once fractured party with minimum opposition, will lead it to victory in 2015. What is your score of the Governor's track record till date? Critics of this administration refuse to accept the oft too repeated truth that Abia was a pariah state for many years. Governor Theodore Orji is re-writing of all that and the evidence abounds. I make bold to state that there was absolutely nothing on ground to show the existence of past governments especially the immediate past government prior to 2007. Chief T. A. Orji has not only refocused the state and its citizens from this destructive trend but has galvanised all prominent citizens and elders of the state into one political family. The consensus of opinion amongst rational Abians is that the governor has performed well within the context of the resources available to him, and given the heavy debt burden of over N29 billion inherited by his government which he has almost finished paying back. Regarding the issue of one political family, do you think the governor has done enough to reposition PDP for 2015? The PDP in Abia State is on a sound footing. Abia State remains one of the states that had 100 percent electoral victory in the last election. For the governorship election where PDP won with more than 90 percent of the total votes cast, PDP won all the three Senatorial seats and all the House of Representative seats in the state. PDP equally has all the House of Assembly seats leaving none to the opposition. This feat however must be attributed to the leadership feat of Chief T. A. Orji who has unified the party in the state and widened the scope of internal democracy. Even as the 2015 election approaches, the PDP in Abia State remains united and unperturbed by the rantings of few disgruntled elements masquerading as chieftains of APC. Three years into the second term of Governor T. A. Orji, how will you rank infrastructure development in the state, starting with the judiciary? Chief T. A. Orji has done tremendously well within these two years into his second term. My assertion will be more appreciated in the light of Abia State's lean resources and the enormity of problems requiring the government's attention. Talking about infrastructure generally, one can say that his emphasis has been that of the provision of needed infrastructure as opposed to development of infrastructure. There was absolutely nothing on ground at the assumption of this government which required improvement. It is difficult to understand that a state like Abia that is presently 22 in age is still struggling to provide working environment for its staff. Here is a state that is still struggling to build a befitting Government House and even provision of accommodation for principal officers of government including the Governor. As we speak, the state capital which hitherto bore the look of a local government area headquarters has the basic facilities befitting a state capital in the areas of dualised road networks, street lights, improved power supply, an international conference centre under construction, an e- library under construction, modern markets, medical and diagnostic centres, an ultra modern High Court complex and Judiciary headquarters under construction, an ongoing modern and state of the art secretariat nearing completion, amongst others. The issue of road network is not only exclusive for the state capital but has been extended to all local government areas in the state with exclusive attention given to the state's commercial nerve centre Aba. For the Judiciary, Chief T. A. Orji has excelled in that area beyond expectation. There is ongoing massive construction of modern court halls with state of the art equipment going on at the Judiciary headquarters at Umuahia and at Aba simultaneously. The idea is to provide our Judges an enabling environment comparable to the best you can find anywhere within the country and outside. Security seems to be a high point for the Governor long after the state was at the mercy of criminals, how did he achieve this and what is the current status? It is true that at one point Abia State was known for insecurity as kidnappers had a field day especially within Aba and its environs. It took the dexterity and determination of the Governor in collaboration with relevant security agencies to curb this menace. At present, Abia State records the least number of criminal activities within the country from available records. Normalcy has been restored to the state and there is upbeat in commercial activities within Aba and its environs which hitherto suffered a decline due to the activities of these hoodlums. What legacy do you think the Governor is leaving behind for posterity? The legacies are legion. These can be seen from the massive infrastructure development dotted all over the state capital and local government areas, earlier mentioned in this interview, inclusive of employment and empowerment of youths and laying the foundation for a future growth, evacuation of electricity from Ohiya power station, collaboration with Geometric Nigeria Limited towards electricity improvement in Aba. There had been arguments from those opposed to the Governor on the issue of frequency of travels - do you agree? The business of government entails travelling especially travels between the state capital and the seat of the Federal Government in Abuja. To that extent I am unable to find reason for complaints on frequency of travels by the Governor. The Governor, from my experience, only leaves the state when it is necessary for official business. He has definitely made some few trips out of the country in the course of his annual leave or in a bid to solicit investment opportunities for the state. Chief T. A. Orji, in my assessment, is even the least travelled of the Governors having spent all his adult life within Abia and Imo States and is always at home with his people. As the Attorney-General until the dissolution of the cabinet, how will you rate Governor Orji's human rights programme? There has been no recorded incident of human rights abuse since the tenure of this government and even at the peak of kidnapping in the state, no issue of extra-judicial killing was recorded The government is not averse to opposition or dissent as the citizens are free to criticize government policies without let or hindrance but such criticisms expectedly should be constructive and meaningful. You had a series of issues such as the appointment of a substantive Chief Judge for the state; how were you able to resolve this? The issue of appointment of a substantive Chief Judge remains unresolved but I am hopeful that it will in no distant time be settled. The reason for the long delay is due to a pending Court action on the issue. In any event, while it is desirable to have a substantive Chief Judge, the business of service delivery in the judiciary is going on unhindered.. What basic reforms were you able to effect while in office? Chief T. A. Orji who is and remains the governor of the state and has the electoral mandate of the people. Let me quickly say that for the Abia State Ministry of Justice, which I superintended, has experienced unprecedented reforms since the creation of the state within the period under review. Staff of the ministry enjoy enhanced and harmonised salary structure which more than 70 percent of states in the country are still struggling to meet. The Abia State Ministry of Justice has one of the best work environments in the country and the morale of the staff is at its peak. The attitude to work has equally received attention. For the Judiciary, though not part of the Executive arm of government, my former office remains the link or mouth piece towards advocating for government attention has experienced massive reforms in the life time of this administration. Apart from ongoing reforms in the provision of good working environment for Judges and other judiciary staff, their welfare and well being remain uppermost in government's agenda. The Abia State Judiciary which prior to 2007 was analogue is computerized and there are plans in the near future to make the Judiciary self accounting for a more efficient judicial service delivery. A new High Court civil procedure rules has been put in place within the lifetime of this administration and alternative dispute resolution made part of the adjudicatory process in the state. Can make a clear distinction between the Ochendo Youth Movement (OYM) and the Abia Youth Empowerment Programme? The two are complementary of each other with a congruence of objectives. The OYM was initiated by Engineer Chinedum Orji as a vehicle to aid Abia youths to be gainfully employed in keeping with his pact with Abia youths in the course of his electioneering campaign for the PDP. The government having seen the meaningful impact of the programme especially in the area of crime control adopted the programme on a seeming larger scale and they both complement the other. VANGUARD