Gov Otti must tender public apology over verbal attack on Journalist – Ikonne

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, Prince Paul Ikonne, has strongly criticised Governor Alex Otti for what he described as his “dictatorial outburst” against a journalist during a recent monthly media briefing in the state.

The APC chieftain asked Governor Otti to tender an unreserved apology to the Journalist and quickly provide answers to the question bothering on accountability asked by the Journalist.

The Abia governor, during a media chat on Friday had described a question directed to him as “irresponsible” and “stupid.”

The Governor lashed out at a journalist who identified himself as Chika Nwabueze at the event for asking that “Your excellency, your administration has received briefs on infrastructure project and reforms, but critics say transparency and inclusive governance need improvement. Can you provide verifiable data showing how your policies have directly improved the standard of living of Abia people?”

Reacting to the development through a statement signed by his media aide, Chiagoziem Enoch, on Sunday in Abuja, Prince Ikonne expressed grave concern over the incident in which Governor Otti reportedly called a journalist “irresponsible” for asking an important questions regarding the measurable impact of his administration on the people of Abia State.

According to Ikonne, the journalist demonstrated courage, professionalism, and boldness by raising issues that directly concern the welfare of Abians.

“That journalist deserves commendation, not condemnation. It takes fearlessness to demand accountability in an environment where public officials appear uncomfortable with scrutiny,” he said.

Ikonne questioned why Governor Otti, as an acclaimed seasoned economist, failed to provide data-backed evidence to demonstrate how his policies have improved the economic conditions of citizens.

“As an economist, is he not supposed to have verifiable statistics and empirical data showing the impact of his government on traders in Ariaria, Abia farmers, and unemployed across the state? Governance is not about rhetoric; it is about measurable outcomes,” he stated.

He further argued that with the huge sums of money accruing to Abia State from federal allocations and internally generated revenue, the government owes citizens transparent, data-driven explanations on how those funds have translated into tangible improvements.

“Have traders experienced lower taxation burdens? Are there job creation opportunities as a result of his policies? Where are the 200 health centers and how many jobs were created?

Ikonne also linked the Governor’s reaction to lingering controversies, including the smart school saga, allegations surrounding recreational centre funds reportedly written off and the photocopy machine error.

He maintained that these issues heighten, rather than diminish, the fact that Otti’s administration is more concerned with social media activity rather than providing verifiable development.

“It is deeply troubling that instead of answering legitimate questions, the Otti resorted to personal attacks. Such conduct mirrors dictatorial tendencies, where dissenting voices are silenced rather than engaged. In a democracy, leaders must tolerate scrutiny,” Ikonne asserted.

He concluded by demanding an immediate public apology from Governor Otti to the journalist involved, and at the same time provide answers to questions asked, adding that failure to do so would further reinforce perceptions of intolerance, authoritarianism and a failed government in the state.

“No leader who believes in democratic accountability should insult a journalist or anyone for asking questions.

Governor Otti must
apologise immediately. His reaction was unbecoming of a public servant and dangerously reminiscent of dictatorial behaviour. Abia deserves transparency, not intimidation,” Ikonne said.