Governor Alex Otti Dismisses Predecessors' Legal Threat as Mere 'Noise'
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has firmly responded to reports that his predecessors, Senators Orji Uzor Kalu and T.A. Orji, are planning to sue him for operating from his private residence in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. In a statement to journalists, Governor Otti labeled the proposed legal action as "just noise" and emphasized that his legal team is fully prepared to address any such challenge.
Constitutional Basis and Public Interest
Governor Otti clarified that he has thoroughly examined the Nigerian Constitution and found no provision mandating where a state governor must reside. He asserted, "I didn't find where there is a provision that I must live somewhere." Instead, he highlighted that the people of Abia State are more concerned with the quality of his work rather than his place of residence. Otti stated, "I know that Abia people are not interested in where I live. They are interested in the work I do."
Condition of Government House and Ongoing Reconstruction
The governor also addressed the state of the government house in Umuahia, explaining that the condition left by his predecessors made it uninhabitable. He remarked, "The state in which they left the government house was not such that I could have lived there." To rectify this, reconstruction work is currently underway at both the government house and the governor's lodge, ensuring that these facilities meet acceptable standards for future use.
Political Context and Broader Implications
Sources familiar with the discussions suggest that the proposed lawsuit is part of broader political realignments ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Abia State. However, as of the time of this report, no formal court filing has been confirmed. Governor Otti's reaction underscores a dismissive stance towards what he perceives as politically motivated distractions. He reiterated, "Ordinarily I have refused to respond to that. The only response I gave to it was that it was noise and still believe it was noise."
This development highlights ongoing tensions within Abia State's political landscape, with Governor Otti focusing on governance while his predecessors explore legal avenues. The situation continues to evolve, with potential implications for the state's administrative and political future.
