Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has taken a decisive step towards fostering good governance by signing into law a bill that abolishes pensions and allowances for former governors and their deputies in the state. The bill, known as HAB 11, the “Abia State Governor’s and Deputy Governor’s Pensions Law Repeal Bill 2024,” was swiftly passed by the State House of Assembly and received Otti’s assent late Thursday.

In explaining his decision, Governor Otti emphasized, “I want to make a few things clear: even before we came onboard, a lot of people who had followed our views understand that we were not going to continue with the practice of paying pensions and allowances to this set of former government officials.”

Otti reiterated his commitment to stewardship, stating, “So it’s all about good governance, it’s all about stewardship to our people and I strongly believe that any leader who believes that leadership is a business has lost his way.”

Otti’s principled stance on governance received commendation from former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who visited Otti at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. Obasanjo lauded Otti for his courage in ending what he described as “daylight robbery” through exorbitant pension schemes while urging other state governors to emulate Otti’s example.

The Deputy Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon Austin Meregini, expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for his cooperation with the State House of Assembly, emphasizing the importance of working together for the common good of the people.

Governor Otti’s decision to abolish pensions for former governors and deputies reflects a commitment to transparent and accountable governance, setting a precedent for other states to follow suit in prioritizing the welfare of citizens over the self-interest of political elites.

Credit: Thisday