FACT TV

PRESS STATEMENT

ABIA APC CONDEMNS PAYMENT OF ₦40K SALARY TO VIGILANTE OPERATIVES BY ABIA STATE GOVERNMENT.

The All Progressives Congress (APC), Abia State Chapter, strongly condemns the gross mistreatment, neglect, and scandalously low remuneration of members of the Abia State Vigilante Services under the administration of Governor Alex Otti.

Recent media reports concerning Ms. Tochi Oluebube, a commander in the Abia Vigilante Services who was arrested over allegations of misconduct, have once again exposed the extremely alarming welfare conditions of security operatives and civil servants in Abia State under the Alex Otti administration, conditions that naturally carry dangerous consequences.

A system that underpays, undervalues, and demoralizes those entrusted with the critical responsibility of safeguarding our lives, property, and communities is only inviting the inevitable consequence: "Insecurity"

While the APC unequivocally condemns any form of criminality, vandalism, or abuse of office, we are also mindful of the fact that Commander Oluebube remains a suspect and has not been convicted or proven guilty by any court of competent jurisdiction.

However, beyond this isolated incident lies a far more troubling systemic neglect one that is directly traceable to the insensitive policies of the Abia State Government. The payment of a paltry ₦40,000 monthly salary to vigilante operatives is not only unacceptable but a clear invitation to insecurity. It is both unrealistic and irresponsible for any government to expect professionalism, discipline, and integrity from security personnel subjected to such economic hardship and indignity.

In a system where the government receives enormous resources from the federal government, where the governor allocates to himsef a staggering ₦933 million monthly as a security vote, far higher than that of Borno State, which faces existential security challenges, and higher than that of all the southeastern states, in a state where the governor drives around with bullet proof SUV vehicles and spends ₦223.39 million monthly on meals, refreshments, and personal welfare in his private residence, as reflected in the state’s budget performance.

Let it be clearly noted that funds intended to strengthen the state’s local security architecture are being selfishly, greedily, and irresponsibly diverted by the state government, while frontline operatives are left underpaid, neglected, and unsupported, conditions that increase the risk of professional compromise.

Comparatively, states with lesser resources have demonstrated greater responsibility and compassion. In Enugu State, local vigilante operatives earn a minimum of ₦80,000, significantly higher than the federal minimum wage and are equipped with modern security tools, reflecting a governance approach that recognizes the importance of investing in human capital for security effectiveness. The situation in Abia, where even basic welfare is neglected, underscores a troubling lack of empathy and commitment by the Alex Otti administration.

This underpayment and poor treatment are not limited to security operatives. While Governor Alex Otti pays road sweepers an embarrassingly low ₦23,000 per month without any additional allowances, their counterparts in Enugu earns ₦80,000 and above while their supervisors are paid ₦120,000 along with extra benefits.

Despite the state government’s propaganda regarding the welfare of Abia civil servants, many workers are yet to benefit from the approved ₦70,000 minimum wage. The government has failed to prioritize the welfare of its workforce, while financial recklessness persists. Commander Tochi Oluebube, if found guilty, would represent a victim of systemic neglect, poor remuneration, and frustration, factors that erode morale and create conditions where compromise becomes increasingly likely. This is not just bad policy; it is insensitive and a direct threat to public safety and security.

The APC therefore warns that this exploitative wage structure is both immoral and dangerous. No society can maintain peace and order when those charged with its protection are poorly remunerated and pushed to the brink of survival.

We urge Governor Alex Otti, as a matter of urgency, to review and substantially improve the salaries, allowances, and overall welfare of Abia Vigilante operatives and other low-income workers. Governance must be humane, people-centered, and responsive not detached, extravagant, and indifferent to the plight of citizens.

Abians deserve better. Our security personnel deserve dignity, respect, and a living wage. Anything short of this is unacceptable.

Signed:
Uche Aguoru
Publicity Secretary
APC Abia State

*OFUJI: A PHENOMENON WHOSE TIME HAS COME*

By Emenike Okorie

Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso (Ofuji) is not just a name, a slogan, or a passing political wave in the Bende Federal Constituency political landscape — he is a phenomenon.

Across the length and breadth of Bende Federal Constituency, Ofuji has built enduring grassroots structures and genuine human connections that reach every community, ward, and household. His presence is not imposed; it is embraced.

Today, a powerful movement is rising organically from the people — women, youths, elders, and stakeholders — all united by one collective call:
“ *Ofuji should represent us in the Federal House of Representatives in 2027*.”

This is not mere political rhetoric; it is the heartfelt song of the ordinary Bende man and woman.
Ofuji is our own!
Ofuji is ours!
Ofuji is for us!

Dr. Anyaso possesses the vision, competence, capacity, and preparedness required to deliver quality representation and attract meaningful dividends of democracy to Bende Federal Constituency.

His leadership promises transformational representation — one rooted in grassroots empowerment, economic opportunities, youth development, educational advancement, and sustainable socio-economic growth.

The moment has come for Ndi Bende to speak with one voice and send a tested leader, a compassionate builder, and a trusted son to Abuja.

*Ofuji, duty calls*!
*Ofuji, Bende calls*!
*Ofuji, now is the time*!
*Come and go for us*!

Abia progressives Hour

Magic FM 102.9 Aba .

Guest Hon. Chief Cosmos Ndukwe ( former deputy Speaker Abia House of Assembly).

Date : Monday ,13th , April,2026.

Time : 10 am - 11am.

Tune , don't miss it .

APC, PDP Leaders Unite at Lawmaker Erondu’s Mega Empowerment Programme in Abia

The lawmaker representing Obingwa-West State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Erondu Uchenna Erondu Jnr, has empowered hundreds of Abians with motorcycles, vehicles and cash support as part of activities marking his birthday celebration.

The large-scale empowerment programme, which attracted political stakeholders and community leaders across party lines, featured the distribution of more than 150 motorcycles and several vehicles to beneficiaries, alongside other support initiatives designed to boost small businesses, create employment opportunities and improve livelihoods.

Beyond the distribution of empowerment items, the event also highlighted an unusual show of political unity as leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other political groups converged under what participants described as a “rainbow coalition.”

Speaking at the event, the celebrant, Erondu Uchenna Erondu Jnr, said the empowerment programme was part of his broader commitment to improving the economic wellbeing of the people through sustainable opportunities. He emphasized that empowering youths, women and vulnerable members of society remains central to his vision of community development.

He urged beneficiaries to utilize the 150 motorcycles, 15 vehicles and other support items effectively to grow their businesses and support their families.

The lawmaker also reaffirmed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress, while appealing to the President to allow the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, LLD, CFR to return to Abia State to contest the 2027 governorship election as the sole candidate of the rainbow coalition in order to reposition the state for greater development.

Representing the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Rev. Emma Trumps Eke noted that empowerment initiatives such as the one organised by Erondu Jnr have helped reduce youth restiveness by providing economic opportunities and encouraging self-reliance.

Former Deputy Governor of Abia State, Dr. Chris Alozie Akomas, in his remarks, commended the Uhie-born legislator and announced additional financial assistance to beneficiaries and stakeholders. These includes cash donations to individuals and groups drawn from various local government areas.

Also speaking, the Abia State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu, described Erondu Jnr as a rare leader committed to the development of his people. He also acknowledged the contributions of former Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu PhD, and former Deputy Governor Dr. Chris Alozie Akomas in delivering democratic dividends to the people.

Chairman of the occasion, Dee Sam Nkire, expressed gratitude to God for blessing the people of Obingwa with what he described as a selfless leader committed to public service. Quoting Nigerian nationalist Nnamdi Azikiwe, the Elder statesman said leaders who remember their people and treat them well will always earn the trust and support of the electorate.

He described Erondu as a leader with impeccable character who has consistently demonstrated compassion for the less privileged in society.

Meanwhile Senator Nkechi Nwaogu, has lauded the scale of the empowerment programme, noting that it was uncommon for a first-term state lawmaker to undertake such a far-reaching initiative. She urged the people to continue supporting Erondu Jnr, stating that his performance had already demonstrated his capacity for higher responsibilities.

The Chairman of Chairmen (PDP) in the Rainbow Coalition, Hon. Barrister Emeka Onyenso, described the gathering as historic, noting that it was one of the rare occasions where members of the All Progressives Congress and Peoples Democratic Party jointly supported a grassroots empowerment initiative in Abia State.

Earlier, Chairman of the Organising Committee, Hon. Chief Chidiebere Ihenyirimmadu, commended the lawmaker for his sustained commitment to grassroots empowerment. He recalled that Erondu Jnr had carried out a similar initiative barely three months earlier, noting that the programme reflects a genuine desire to uplift the people.

Also speaking, an APC chieftain, Dr. Nyerere Chinenye Anyim, commended the celebrant for remembering the needs of the people, expressing hope that the items distributed would significantly improve the economic conditions of the beneficiaries.

Former Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Christopher O. Enweremadu, noted that the empowerment initiative stood out because it placed no financial burden on beneficiaries, unlike some schemes that eventually become liabilities.

Similarly, former member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Uzo Azubuike, stated that generosity is not a function of wealth but of goodwill. He commended Erondu Jnr for promoting unity across political divides and urged the people to continue supporting him.

Nigerian Ambassador-Designate to the Kingdom of Spain and former Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, was represented at the event by his wife, Her Excellency, Dr. (Mrs.) Nkechi Carol Ikpeazu.

PRESS RELEASE

RE: FALSE CLAIMS OF CANDIDATE ENDORSEMENT BY THE STATE WORKING COMMITTEE (SWC)

The attention of the State Working Committee (SWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abia State Chapter, has been drawn to a press statement credited to a governorship aspirant, Chief Mascot Uzor Kalu, alleging that the SWC is involved in a planned meeting convened to endorse a particular aspirant for the party’s governorship ticket.

The SWC wishes to categorically state that this allegation is entirely false, misleading, and without any basis.

For the avoidance of doubt, the State Working Committee has not endorsed any aspirant for the governorship ticket or for any elective position whatsoever. Furthermore, the SWC is not constitutionally empowered to endorse candidates in the manner being alleged. Our responsibility is to provide a neutral administrative platform that guarantees fairness and credibility in the party’s processes.

The only endorsement ever made collectively by the party structure at this level remains that of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in line with our national obligations and party cohesion.

We reiterate unequivocally that neither the SWC nor the enlarged State Executive Committee (EXCO) has endorsed any aspirant at any level.

Under the leadership of the State Chairman, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu, the APC in Abia State remains firmly committed to internal democracy. We are dedicated to ensuring that all aspirants are given a level playing field, and that the forthcoming primaries will be conducted in a free, fair, transparent, and credible manner.

While it is not uncommon in the political process for aspirants to raise concerns sometimes as a means of seeking reassurance or gaining strategic advantage, we urge all stakeholders to refrain from spreading unfounded claims capable of causing unnecessary tension within the party.

For clarity, the SWC may attend meetings or events convened by party leaders, stakeholders, or affiliated structures in the course of its duties if invited. However, such participation must not be misconstrued as endorsement, as the EXCO will at all times operate strictly within the bounds of its constitutional responsibilities and remain neutral in all contestations.

As a committee we are focused on delivering victory at all levels for the APC in the coming elections and to ensure that Abia State APC remains united, focused, and committed to delivering a credible electoral process that reflects the will of our members.

Signed:
Uche Aguoru
Publicity Secretary
APC, Abia State Chapter

PROGRESSIVE ABIA YOUTHS 5TH ANNIVERSARY/ EXTRAORDINARY CONVENTION 2026

Abia Born business magnet philanthropist, youths champion Dr Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso exhorts Nigerian youths to espouse enterprise, innovation, and responsible leadership as essential drivers of sustainable national development.



Delivering the Opening Address as Chairman of the Progressive Abia Youths 5th Anniversary and Extraordinary Convention, themed “ REIMAGINING GOVERNANCE: YOUTH LEADERSHIP, TECHNOLOGY AND SUSTAINABLE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT — APPRAISING OUR JOURNEY, ORGANISING THE FUTURE,” Dr. chimaobi Desmond Anyaso highlighted that the era of passive participation by young people is over.



According to him, youths must move beyond complaints and become active stakeholders in governance, economic productivity, and nation-building. He described entrepreneurship as the greatest training ground for leadership, noting that enterprise builds discipline, accountability, problem-solving capacity, and economic independence — qualities required for effective governance.



Dr. Anyaso commended the administration of Governor Alex Chioma Otti for what he described as a visible transition from promises to performance, emphazing renewed public confidence, infrastructure development, and purposeful governance. He stressed that progress must be protected through continuity, urging stakeholders and young people to support ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning Abia State for sustainable growth.



Dr. Anyaso further urged youths to embrace a new mindset focused on value creation, technology adoption, skills development, and innovation rather than dependence on government employment.



Declaring the convention open, he encouraged participants to think boldly, build capacity, lead with integrity, and become architects of Nigeria’s future.



The convention brought together youth leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders committed to advancing youth inclusion in governance and national development.

*ANYASO CHARGES YOUTHS ON ENTERPRISE, LEADERSHIP AND CONTINUITY OF GOOD GOVERNANCE AT PROGRESSIVE ABIA YOUTHS CONVENTION*

By Emenike Okorie

Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso has called on Nigerian youths to embrace enterprise, innovation, and responsible leadership as critical drivers of sustainable national development.

Delivering the Opening Address as Chairman of the Progressive Abia Youths 5th Anniversary and Extraordinary Convention, themed “Reimagining Governance: Youth Leadership, Technology and Sustainable National Development — Appraising Our Journey, Organizing the Future,” Dr. Anyaso emphasized that the era of passive participation by young people is over.

According to him, youths must move beyond complaints and become active stakeholders in governance, economic productivity, and nation-building. He described entrepreneurship as the greatest training ground for leadership, noting that enterprise builds discipline, accountability, problem-solving capacity, and economic independence — qualities required for effective governance.

Speaking on developments in Abia State, Dr. Anyaso commended the administration of Governor Alex Chioma Otti for what he described as a visible transition from promises to performance, highlighting renewed public confidence, infrastructure development, and purposeful governance. He stressed that progress must be protected through continuity, urging stakeholders and young people to support ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning Abia State for sustainable growth.

Dr. Anyaso further challenged youths to adopt a new mindset focused on value creation, technology adoption, skills development, and innovation rather than dependence on government employment.

Declaring the convention open, he encouraged participants to think boldly, build capacity, lead with integrity, and become architects of Nigeria’s future.

The convention brought together youth leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders committed to advancing youth inclusion in governance and national development.

CITY BOY MOVEMENT ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP CHANGES IN ABIA

The Abia State Chapter of the City Boy Movement has announced a series of leadership changes and new appointments across key structures of the organization, as part of efforts to strengthen coordination and deepen grassroots engagement.

The directive, contained in an official memorandum dated April 10, 2026, was issued by the State Director, Mayor Lucky Igbokwe, and addressed to all State Executives, Local Government Area (LGA) Coordinators, Zonal Leaders, and Strategic Units.

According to the memorandum, the changes take immediate effect and are aimed at repositioning the movement for greater impact across Abia State.

Key Leadership Changes

The newly announced appointments include:

Isuikwuato LGA: Joseph Odomuko has been appointed as LGA Coordinator, replacing Okechukwu Henry Okorie.

Strategy & Planning Unit: Nathanial Majesty Idam Elekwa takes over from Daphne Osakwe.

Obingwa LGA: Hon. Lazarus Enyinnaya Nwamaghinna replaces Sunday Hanson Amaechi as LGA Coordinator.

Ugwunagbo LGA: Esiaba Chinkereze has been named the new LGA Coordinator, succeeding Erica Godwin Ezenwoke.

Directive for Immediate Handover

The memorandum also directed all outgoing office holders to carry out an immediate and proper handover of responsibilities, materials, and relevant documents to their successors.

Mayor Igbokwe emphasized that the transition process must be seamless and conducted in the best interest of the Movement, underscoring the need for unity and continuity in leadership.

Strengthening the Movement

Observers say the restructuring reflects a strategic move by the City Boy Movement to consolidate its grassroots presence and enhance operational efficiency across the state.

With these changes, the Abia Chapter is expected to intensify its activities and expand its influence as it positions itself for greater political and social impact.

The leadership reiterated its commitment to discipline, coordination, and service, calling on all members to support the new appointees in delivering on the Movement’s objectives.

Anyaso Celebrates Abia Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu on Birthday

Abia-born businessman and philanthropist, Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, has congratulated the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, on the occasion of his birthday.

In a goodwill message made available to newsmen today, Dr. Anyaso described the Deputy Governor as a dedicated public servant whose commitment to the progress and development of Abia State continues to inspire confidence among the people.

He commended Emetu for his humility, leadership qualities, and unwavering support for the vision of the present administration in delivering good governance and improved welfare for citizens of the state.

Dr. Anyaso noted that the Deputy Governor’s contributions to public service and his loyalty to the collective goal of advancing Abia’s development have remained commendable.

He prayed that God grants Engr. Emetu good health, wisdom, and renewed strength to continue serving the state with distinction.

“On behalf of my family and associates, I warmly congratulate Your Excellency on this special occasion. I wish you many more years of impactful service, good health, and fulfillment,” he said.

HOW ABIA USES CONSULTANTS TO WRITE OFF PUBLIC FUNDS UNDER RESERCH AND DEVELOPMENT

Research and Development (R&D) refers to investigative and experimental activities undertaken by an organization to innovate, create new products or services, or improve existing ones. It bridges basic research (acquiring knowledge) with applied development (creating practical, marketable solutions), ultimately enhancing growth and competitiveness.

The World Bank, through the SEFTAS programme, made provision in the p***c accounting template for states to make expenditures under this subhead.

However, while many states have not turned this provision into a conduit for siphoning public funds, the situation is different in Abia.
As the Commissioner for Finance who signed Abia State into this World Bank programme, we deliberately avoided this route and instead devised alternative, more transparent means of achieving the same objectives.

For instance, the automation, centralization, and biometric capture of civil servants and pensioners were executed without hiring consultants. We identified sincere, capable, and committed civil servants (both serving and retired) to handle these responsibilities as members of the committee. At the time, we even asked UBA, the state’s official banker, to fund some of these assignments considering the financial situation of that era (2015 to 2019).

It is disheartening that almost three years after , Abia state is still paying consultants millions of Naira for routine process of salary and pension payments monthly. A government that wears a badge of technocrats cannot develop and manage internal salary payment processes except through hired consultants. Unfortunately,even with the engagements of professional consultants, we understand that over 7,000 pensioners that retired over 2 years ago, are yet to be included in their database.

AfDB $263.8 million loan:
We engaged the World Bank and other multi lateral agencies directly without the use of consultants and still achieved success. For instance, Our presentation before the Joint Committee on appropriation,Foreign and Local Loans, chaired by Senator Shehu Sani for this $263.8 million, was prepared internally. I must appreciate the contributions of Emeka Ononiwu, Bar Bob Ogu, Hon Eziuche Ubani, Ncheta Omerkpe, etc. Other states engaged certified consultants to handle the entire process, but the locusts infested Abia of that era concluded this process sacrificially without being paid a Kobo. If it were during this New Abia dispensation, the consultancy fee would have been dollar denominated.

RAAMP $50 million:
We also handled engagements with the World Bank directly. Our civil servants demonstrated exceptional competence during multiple sessions, often standing out among their counterparts from other states. Due to the sacrifices and dedication of past administrations, today, Abia benefits from this programme with rural roads being constructed to improve access to local markets.

NEWMAP $54 million:
I recall vividly the day this fund was credited to the state’s account with Zenith Bank in 2017. It felt like a major breakthrough. I immediately called the Governor in excitement. It was as if I won a lottery.

Although I exited the government shortly after receipt of this fund , I remain pleased that part of the fund was used to tackle the severe gully erosion threatening the community of our respected wife and sister, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

However, I had concerns about the fund management, especially road works around Ohanku and Ngwa Road. I remain thankful to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Arunma Oteh for their support during that period

I have taken time to highlight how major projects and international engagements were successfully executed without using external consultants.

The passion, dedication, and sacrifice of those involved made it possible for us to achieve so much during the period of lean resources and financial hardship due to the recession of that era (2015 to 2017)

In contrast to the sacrifices we made in those austere era, Abia State government7 today is using external consultants for routine tasks, even to count the number of vehicles on the Governor’s convoy due to excess liquidity made possible by the removal of fuel subsidy. The unnecessary use of external consultants explains why the state reported in their budget performance expenditure to have used almost N53 billion on Reserch and Development, which are fees paid for consultancy.

While this R&D reporting template exists across states, no state has abused that sub-head like Abia under this present administration. Billions are written off under consultancy deals, while firms like KPMG are used as decoy.

I discovered that we can source for experienced consultants internally by leveraging the expertise of competent serving and retired civil servants to achieve the same purpose of which Otti’s government pays billions to external consultants.

Ironically, during that "24-year era of locusts," which is a deceptive cliché used by Otti’s government to create a negative impression of past administrations. ABIA secured more than $367 million in development funding. Except for the NEWMAP facility, all other loans are currently being managed by this administration. Therefore, going by their tradition of writing off funds using consultancy fee, We are entitled to 15% of the $367 million, which gives us $55 million as a consultancy fee.

This is a legitimate way of syphoning public funds under this administration. As they say , the more things change , the more they get worse.

Obinna Oriaku
Ekwedike.

OFUJI MOVEMENT Concludes Ward-to-Ward Tour in Grand Style

By Gabriel Aguwa Paul ()

Residents of Bende Federal Constituency have witnessed a season of renewed hope as the Chima Anyaso Foundation concluded its OFUJI Movement ward-to-ward outreach across the constituency.

The humanitarian tour, which covered the 13 wards of Bende Federal Constituency, came to a grand conclusion on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, bringing relief and encouragement to many households grappling with economic hardship.

The outreach, driven by philanthropist and business leader Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, provided food items and financial support to families during the Lenten season, offering timely assistance and strengthening community solidarity.

Throughout the tour, the foundation’s team moved from ward to ward, delivering aid and engaging directly with residents through what organisers described as the “Direct Touch Initiative”—a grassroots approach aimed at ensuring that support reaches people at the community level.

According to organisers, the initiative was designed to make the movement more than a message by translating compassion into practical assistance for families in need.

Easter Visits to Uzuakoli and Umuimenyi/Nkpa

The final phase of the tour featured visits to two wards in Ikwuisi:

Uzuakoli Ward, at Amuhi Eluama, Uzuakoli

Umuimenyi/Nkpa Ward, at Lohum Imenyi Ukwu, Achi Village Square, Nkpa Amaogbeke Amaohoro

Community members—including traditional rulers, youth groups, women, town union leaders, and religious leaders—gathered to receive the foundation’s team and express appreciation for the support extended to residents.

The events provided an opportunity for community interaction, recognition of local leadership, and encouragement for continued unity and collective development.

Celebration of Service and Renewal

Speakers at the gatherings described the outreach as a demonstration of compassionate leadership and grassroots engagement.

Representing Dr. Anyaso during the concluding visits were Ezeogo (Dr.) Emeka Onuoha, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Chima Anyaso Foundation, and Pastor Okechukwu D**e, who led the delegation through the final activities of the tour.

As the outreach concluded, organisers reaffirmed the movement’s guiding message: “OFUJI Movement: The Idea Whose Time Has Come.”

For many residents, the initiative brought not only material support but also renewed optimism; reinforcing the belief that meaningful change can begin at the grassroots, one ward at a time.