Governor Otti Issues Stern Warning Against Vandals Damaging Public Gutters in Aba, Selling off Rods as Scraps

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has strongly denounced the destructive actions of individuals vandalizing public infrastructure in Aba, where they dismantle gutters’ covering slabs and sell the rods as scrap metal.

Speaking during his monthly media chat with Abia residents at the Government House, Umuahia, Otti labeled the act as criminal and unacceptable, emphasizing that such actions undermine communal development efforts.

Otti announced the establishment of a task force to apprehend perpetrators engaging in these destructive activities, asserting that strict legal actions, including prosecution in mobile courts, await anyone caught in the act.

Responding to allegations of misappropriation of funds intended for local governments, Otti vehemently denied the claims, asserting that such accusations lacked evidence. He challenged accusers to present concrete proof, stating, “We don’t operate in a system where snakes and rats swallow money.”

Furthermore, Otti revealed the return of government-concessioned agricultural lands by past beneficiaries, some of whom are now seeking refunds. He assured transparency in handling such matters.

Highlighting infrastructural developments, Otti announced the commencement of the construction of the Nunya-Isiukwato Road and Ozu Abam-Okobo-Arochukwu Road, slated to commence imminently.

Addressing concerns over civil service efficiency, Otti defended the implementation of work attendance recording devices in local governments, stating that salaries would be withheld for employees with attendance below 70%.

In terms of welfare, Otti reaffirmed his commitment to clearing pension arrears by the first quarter of the year and disclosed that 66,000 civil servants are currently receiving timely salaries.

Regarding education, Otti outlined plans for the remodeling of 170 primary schools and 51 secondary schools in 2024, along with the modernization of the curriculum to incorporate emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

In conclusion, Otti reiterated his administration’s dedication to enhancing governance transparency, infrastructure development, and public service efficiency for the benefit of Abia State residents.