A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, Prince Paul Ikonne, has called on Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, to tender a public apology to a journalist following an exchange during a recent media briefing.
Governor Otti, while responding to a question at the session, described the inquiry as “irresponsible” and “stupid.” The journalist, who identified himself as Chika Nwabueze, had asked the governor to provide verifiable data showing how his administration’s projects and reforms have directly improved the standard of living of Abia residents.
Reacting in a statement signed by his media aide, Chiagoziem Enoch, Ikonne said, “The question asked by the journalist was centered on accountability, transparency and measurable impact of government policies, adding that public officials should be prepared to address such concerns with facts and data.
He noted that journalists play a vital role in deepening democratic governance by seeking clarification on issues affecting citizens..”In a democracy, leaders should be willing to provide clear, data-backed explanations to the people.”
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.
He added, “Journalists perform a constitutional role of holding public office holders accountable. Asking for verifiable statistics on how policies have improved the lives of citizens should not attract insults.”
Ikonne further stated, “Governor Otti, as the chief executive of the state, owes Abians detailed information on how public funds are being utilised and how government initiatives are translating into tangible benefits.”
The APC chieftain who further 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 said., “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 others.
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
Calling for restraint and civility, he said, “Public discourse must remain respectful. I urge the governor to apologise to the journalist involved and address the issues raised with facts and figures. That is how trust and confidence in governance are strengthened.”
Ikonne who further appealed for civility in public discourse maintained that constructive engagement between government officials and the media remains essential to deepening democratic accountability and transparency in the state.
