During a special thanksgiving service in Umuahia North LGA, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, addressed the delay in salary and pension payments that he had promised.

He attributed the delay to fictitious figures and numbers that cannot be confirmed, indicating that the current administration is facing challenges in verifying the actual amount owed.

Governor Otti assured the people that confirmed salaries and arrears of pensions would be paid by the end of the month and appealed for their patience. He acknowledged the enormous debt left by the previous administration and pledged to address it. The governor emphasized that he would not be distracted by criticisms and would not make excuses.

Furthermore, Governor Otti stated that his full cabinet would be constituted by the end of the month. He emphasized the importance of establishing the cabinet to ensure effective governance. The recent inauguration of the State House of Assembly was seen as a positive step towards facilitating the smooth operation of the government.

Expressing his dissatisfaction, Governor Otti expressed his disappointment with the state of Umuahia, the capital city of Abia, likening it to a glorified village.

He made a significant announcement, stating that within the next three months, his administration would initiate measures to transform the city and improve its aesthetics. Governor Otti appealed to all individuals and groups to extend their support towards this endeavor.

Earlier in his exhortations during the church service held at St. Michael’s Anglican Church, Okaiuga Nkwoegwu, Rt. Rev. Geoffrey Ibeabuchi advised the celebrant that “It is not yet time to rejoice, but time to humble selves before God and ask for His grace”.

According to him, “The politics of Abia State have just changed. If not the Lord is on your side, you would not have been what you are today.

“It is not an easy journey. The government has been messed up so that whatever you do, it seems you have not done anything. We had leaders who make policies without studying the situation. There must be this thing on the ground to make this work.

“If we must support fuel subsidy, there must be something that should be on the ground (to cushion it)”.

He further advised Aguocha, “The problem of Ikwuano/Umuahia Constituency is going to be on your head and all will be inviting you for every occasion. Be faithful to God as you need the prayers of the church.

“As a former President General (of Ohuhu), your responsibility cannot be compared to that of your present position. Forget about money and do the assignments given to you to avoid EFCC.

“Begin now to build a structure based on God which you will use for your second tenure”.

During his speech, Hon. Obi Aguocha, the host and member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, expressed his gratitude to God for the privilege of being elected to represent his constituents.

He also acknowledged the successful inauguration and made a solemn pledge not to disappoint the people he represents.