In a powerful New Year's address, a prominent figure in Nigeria's All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on the people of Abia State to actively demand accountability from their state government as they look towards the year 2026.
A Call for Civic Courage and Engagement
Prince Paul Ikonne, a chieftain of the APC in Abia State, issued a personal message on Thursday, January 1, 2026, urging citizens to enter the new year with resolve. He emphasized that democratic governance requires more than passive observation; it demands active civic participation.
Ikonne, who previously served as the Executive Secretary and CEO of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), described Abians as resilient and resourceful. He argued that their aspirations can only be met by leadership grounded in concrete action and responsibility, not mere political rhetoric.
"As the dawn of this new year breaks, I stand with every Abian, filled with hope and determination," Ikonne stated. He encouraged residents to constructively engage with their government and to persistently ask critical questions of those in power.
The Critical Role of Local Government Councils
A central pillar of Ikonne's message was a strong demand for the proper functioning of local government councils. He positioned these councils as the essential foundation for any meaningful grassroots development within the state.
"One critical step toward progress is allowing our Local Government Authorities to function freely and effectively," Ikonne asserted. He maintained that these bodies, being closest to the people, are best positioned to address daily community needs, from infrastructure and education to healthcare and job creation.
The APC chieftain warned that sidelining or weakening local councils ultimately stifles progress and exacerbates hardship for ordinary citizens. He directly appealed to Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party to prioritize democratic practices at the local level in the coming year.
Direct Appeal to Governor Otti and the People
Ikonne's message contained a clear directive for both the state's leadership and its citizens. He called on Governor Otti to "honor this responsibility in the new year" and to let local councils "breathe again" so democracy can flourish where it matters most.
To the people of Abia, he issued a rallying cry for vigilance. "In this 2026, I encourage every Abian to rise with courage and ask the right questions of those in power," Ikonne said. He listed transparency, accountability, fairness, and a responsive government as non-negotiable demands.
Expressing optimism for Abia's future, Ikonne concluded that the state's greatness would be achieved "not by silencing the people, but by empowering them." His call to action frames the coming year as a pivotal period for civic responsibility and governmental accountability in Abia State.
