The Abia State Executive Council (SEC) has established a five-member special committee to investigate allegations of harassment, extortion, and related misconduct involving students and lecturers at Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu. The decision was taken during the council's weekly meeting held on Monday, May 11, 2026, as part of the state government's efforts to uphold high academic and ethical standards at the institution.
Committee Composition and Terms of Reference
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, stated that the committee would be chaired by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Dr. Caleb Ajagba, while the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Communication, Mr. Dodoh Okafor, will serve as secretary. Other members include Mr. Chinedu Ekeke, Professor Idowu Eluwa, and Professor Lawrence Idemudia. Kanu noted that the committee is expected to work closely with the university's Governing Council and has been given four key terms of reference.
The committee is tasked with identifying perpetrators involved in the allegations and making appropriate recommendations to the Visitor of the university. It will also investigate allegations of bribery and certificate forgery involving a lecturer, determine the level of implementation of the white paper arising from the 2024 visitation panel to the university, and identify any implementation gaps. Furthermore, the committee is mandated to examine any other issues relevant to the ongoing transformation and restoration of ABSU as a center of academic excellence, teaching, and research.
Census and Education Initiatives
The Information Commissioner also disclosed that the 2026 annual census of public and private schools commenced across the state on Monday, May 11, 2026. He explained that the one-month exercise aims to provide the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education with reliable data for planning, policy formulation, and access to the Hope Education Intervention Grant. Kanu further revealed that the Abia State Agency for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education has established 140 learning centers across the state to provide educational opportunities for adults and individuals who missed formal education earlier in life.
In line with Governor Alex Otti's education reform agenda, the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) recently organized training and capacity-building programs for 265 head teachers and 306 Early Childhood Care Development teachers to strengthen school management and improve learning outcomes.
World Bank Collaboration and Other Engagements
The commissioner also recalled Governor Alex Otti's recent visit, alongside some top government officials, to the new World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mr. Matthew Verghis, in Abuja. He described the visit as part of ongoing efforts to deepen collaboration between the Abia State Government and the World Bank. According to him, the meeting provided an opportunity for both parties to review ongoing programs and explore new areas of partnership capable of accelerating development in the state.
The Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, who was part of the governor's delegation, expressed optimism that the engagement would further strengthen Abia's access to World Bank partnership programs. She identified energy, education, agriculture, and ICT as major sectors of continued collaboration, noting that they align with Governor Otti's development vision for the state.
Kanu further disclosed that, in line with Governor Otti's commitment to promoting integrity, leadership, and service, the state government will host the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty Dr. Nnaemeka Achebe, on Friday, May 15, 2026, in celebration of his 85th birthday anniversary. He noted that Governor Otti has consistently honored distinguished Nigerians and Abians from different walks of life, including politicians, musicians, and retired military officers, as part of efforts to inspire younger generations.
Environmental Sanitation Enforcement
The commissioner also provided updates on environmental sanitation activities across the state. He said the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) has commenced full enforcement of the use of waste bins in all commercial vehicles across the state to promote cleanliness and proper waste disposal among passengers. Kanu maintained that ASEPA's consistent efforts have contributed significantly to Abia's growing reputation as one of the cleanest states in Nigeria.
Speaking further, ASEPA General Manager, Mazi Ogbonnaya Okereke, explained that the enforcement drive was not intended as a revenue-generating exercise but aimed at ensuring compliance with environmental sanitation laws. He added that the agency is working towards expanding the availability of public waste bins to areas where they are yet to be provided. Okereke urged residents to support the environmental protection and sanitation policies of the Governor Alex Otti administration by complying with proper waste disposal practices.
