“I Am Not Owing You” – Gov Otti To Agitating ABSU Staff, As Criminals See Hell In Aba, Umuahia

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Abia State Government has said that the staffers of Abia State University Uturu, like other members of the State workforce, are up to date in the payments of their salaries and other emoluments.

There has been disquiet within the University community and a few other extra- ministerial establishments over alleged non payment of their salaries.

But in his monthly interactive session with the Media Friday evening, June 21, 2024, Governor Alex Otti, insisted that the Abia State University Workers, as well as others in the State, have been receiving their monthly wages as at, and when due since the inception of his administration in May, 2023.

“As at today, (Friday June 21), every member of staff of Abia State University has received his/her salaries up to date. Anyone who has not received may be having issues with his/her bank.

He revealed that as a matter of policy, his administration has been intentional in ensuring that all legitimate members of the State workforce receive their monthly salaries promptly and regularly.

Governor Otti had during the one year anniversary  of his administration on May 29, 2024, emphasised the  imperativeness of prompt and regular payments of salaries as an integral and important component of the wider blueprint of his administration to fast track the growth and development of the State’s economy.

“When you put money in the hands of those who will spend it within, you are boosting the economy.That is why in Abia, we are putting money in the hands of those who will spend/ invest it in the state and not those who will take it abroad.

“We have said that never again, will a labourer be owed his legitimate wages in Abia under our watch, unlike what obtained in the past .

“It was part of our promises during the electioneering campaigns and we have kept faith with the promise”, the Governor stated .

While speaking on the security sector, Otti asserted that his administration from inception prioritized the provision of a strong security architecture, and has so far worked assiduously with security agencies to ensure adequate protection of lives and property in Abia State

Specifically, he announced that his administration is collaborating with security agencies to ensure that those behind the infamous and dastardly killings of five Nigerian soldiers  at Obikabia junction on May 30, 2024, are rounded up and brought to justice accordingly.

“On security, all of us are aware that this Government takes security seriously. Unfortunately, there was a breach on May 30.

“We all know the story. But the most important thing we have to say is that we will ensure that everyone who was involved in the murder of those five soldiers must be brought to book.

“I have visited the families of the deceased. I have placed a bounty on the heads of the perpetrators and we are making progress. Suffice it to say that nobody connected with this crime will go unpunished.

“We are getting reports on criminal activities within Aba and Umuahia. So far, we have given enough warning and this time, we are not warning anyone again.. From this night (Friday night) you will see what will happen. Our resolve is stronger than ever” Governor noted.