ABIA APC SUPPORTS CHIKA NWABUEZE ON FACT-BASED JOURNALISM, FROWNS AT OTTI’S TEMPERAMENT
An unfortunate altercation occurred yesterday during Governor Alex Otti’s media chat, where a journalist was verbally attacked for asking questions bordering on verifiable data of Abia government’s claims. Our Governor must understand that democracy thrives on transparency, accountability anchored on credible data, and mutual respect between public office holders and the media.
Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) strongly frowns at Governor Alex Otti’s troubling conduct during the media engagement of yesterday, which raises deeper concerns about his temperament and commitment to accountability in governance.
Furthermore, Abia APC maintains that journalists serve as watchdogs of society and deserve respect in the discharge of their legitimate duties. They are not expected to be praise singers or take sides because they are trained professionals tasked with asking probing questions, seeking clarification on public expenditures, and demanding verifiable data to support government claims.
As members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm, journalists play a critical role in safeguarding democracy. When a governor reacts harshly to legitimate inquiries, it raises concerns about his openness and respect for democratic principles. Abia APC insists that public office holders must be prepared to defend their policies with facts rather than emotion.
The Abia APC, therefore urges Governor Otti to embrace fact-based governance, which requires more than social media declarations. Claims must be backed with verifiable data. In a democracy, asking for proof of performance should never be interpreted as hostility but as civic responsibility.
Governor Otti must remember that he is now a democratic leader and nolonger a bank executive. A calm and measured response under pressure reflects maturity and confidence. He should demonstrate that he is open to dissenting voices and committed to democratic ideals. Free journalism remains a pillar of good governance and must be respected and protected.
Anybody who occupies the highly respected office of a state governor is expected to be emotionally mature, open-minded, patient, accountable, and ready to answer critical questions about his policy direction for the state.
Signed,
ABIA APC CAUCUS.
28/02/2026