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Alex otti

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Otti Reaffirms Commitment to Foreign Investment as Abia–Türkiye Summit Opens

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Abia State, Governor Alex Otti on Tuesday placed foreign investment at the centre of Abia State’s economic strategy as he delivered the keynote address at the maiden Abia–Türkiye Investment Summit and Product Exhibition in Umuahia.

Speaking on the theme “Prosperity Through Partnership,” Otti reiterated his administration’s resolve to expand Abia’s economic frontiers through strong international alliances.

He said the state’s reforms anchored on improved infrastructure, a skilled workforce, enhanced security, and more reliable energy were deliberately crafted to attract global investors.

The summit, themed “Bridging Continents, Unlocking Prosperity,” brought together investors, business executives, and innovators at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, to explore opportunities in manufacturing, agriculture, textiles, SME development, and industrial innovation.

Otti urged Turkish investors to partner with the state in agro-processing, textile production, housing, metal fabrication, logistics, retail value chains, and modular manufacturing. He also highlighted the 2,000-hectare Abia Industrial Innovation Park (AIIP) as a transformative hub for energy-driven enterprises.

“Abia is open for business. Our reforms are deliberate, our vision is bold, and our support is assured,” the governor said, expressing optimism that collaboration with Türkiye would unlock new avenues of shared prosperity.

The summit continues with exhibitions, business matchmaking sessions, and sector-specific engagements aimed at turning investment conversations into concrete projects.

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JUST IN: Majority leader smashes Lawmaker’s head with Bottle over Gov. Otti’s Cash Gift

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Tension has gripped the Abia State House of Assembly following a violent clash between members of the Labour Party (LP) caucus during a private meeting in Aba over the sharing of funds allegedly disbursed by Governor Alex Otti.

According to multiple sources, the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Okoro Uchenna Kalu, who represents Arochukwu State Constituency, attacked his colleague, Hon. Akachukwu Ucheonye of Aba Central Constituency, with a beer bottle, leaving him with a deep head wound and severe concussion.

The altercation reportedly occurred during a meeting of LP lawmakers at the residence of Hon. Fyne Ahuama, member representing Osisioma Ngwa South Constituency. The session, which was also attended by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, was said to have turned chaotic following disagreements over how to share a sum allegedly given to the caucus by Governor Otti as an “appreciation” for the swift passage of the N150 billion supplementary budget.

A source at the meeting said Ucheonye, who chairs the House Committee on Appropriation, Budget, and Planning, insisted on receiving a larger share of the money, citing his pivotal role in the budget process. His demand reportedly provoked the Majority Leader, who smashed a beer bottle on his colleague’s head after a heated exchange.

“The Speaker was there and told everyone not to report the incident to the police or leak it to the media,” one insider revealed.

Ucheonye was said to have been rushed to a nearby private clinic where he received emergency treatment for deep cuts to the head. Later that evening, he reportedly sent a message to Governor Otti, attaching photos and a video of his injuries.

“Good evening His Excellency, this is a wound I sustained from the Majority Leader for trying to voice my opinion on issues bordering on the committee I chair at the premises of Hon. Fyne Ahuama during our caucus meeting today at Aba,” the message read.

 

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Labour Party Suspends Governor Alex Otti, Five Others Over Alleged Anti-Party Activities

by Nelson Ugwuagbo
written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

The Labour Party (LP) has announced the indefinite suspension of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, alongside five other prominent members, over allegations of anti-party activities.

Those suspended include Senator Ireti Kingibe, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Victor Afam Ogene, Amobi Ogah, and Seyi Sowunmi. The decision was made public on Wednesday following the submission of a report by a disciplinary panel set up to investigate the allegations.

The party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) had, on May 2, 2025, constituted a five-member Disciplinary Committee chaired by Deputy National Chairman Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi, with National Secretary Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim and three others serving as members.

After completing its investigation, the committee submitted its findings to the party leadership. The NEC, during its meeting on May 7, deliberated on the report and ratified the committee’s recommendations in accordance with the party’s constitution.

The Labour Party has yet to disclose the specific nature of the alleged anti-party activities, but affirmed that the suspensions take immediate effect.

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Governor Otti Moves to Seal Landmark Deal with Israeli Investors to Revolutionize Agriculture in Abia

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Governor Alex Otti has announced plans to partner with Israeli investors to boost agriculture in Abia State. Find out what the deal includes and why it could change everything.

In what appears to be a major leap toward economic transformation, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has signaled his administration’s readiness to partner with Israeli agricultural investors in a groundbreaking collaboration that could redefine the state’s food production and agribusiness sector.

The Governor made this known on Monday, April 29, 2025, during a strategic meeting with the Managing Director of ONIDA Development, Mr. Kidron Israel, an Israeli-based agricultural expert, and his delegation who visited him at the Government House, Umuahia.

Governor Otti, visibly impressed by the presentation made by the Israeli firm, expressed his eagerness to see the immediate takeoff of the proposed agricultural investment, stressing that the government is willing to offer land as its equity contribution to accelerate the partnership.

“Watching the presentation and listening to you, I could see that we are going to work together,” Governor Otti stated.

“So, I am in a hurry to see that you begin to implement this initiative to boost productivity in the State. The land belongs to the government, and we are willing to provide land. Because we are involved, even if you have to pay anything, it will be insignificant. The land can be our equity to the investment.”

The Governor tasked the Israeli team to immediately meet with members of the state’s agricultural and economic team to work out actionable steps to fast-track the commencement of the project. He recommended that the investment should kick off with fish and vegetable production, while other areas such as poultry and mechanized farming could follow.

Describing Abians as naturally enterprising people who thrive when provided with the right environment, Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating the necessary conditions for businesses to succeed.

Abia people don’t depend on government handouts. All they need is an enabling environment. That is what we are doing—making the state investor-friendly. We welcome everyone who has value to offer.”

Earlier, the MD of ONIDA Development, Mr. Kidron Israel, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating that what the Israeli team required from the state was land and enabling policies to commence operations. He assured the Governor that his organization has the right international financing contacts to execute the project efficiently.

“We chose Abia because of your visionary leadership. Your proactive approach and the positive transformation your administration is delivering made Abia an ideal partner,” Mr. Kidron noted.

Also speaking, Mrs. Florence Osuji, National Coordinator of the Nigeria-Israel Forum, emphasized that their visit was to introduce Israeli agricultural technology and innovation to support Nigeria’s food security. She highlighted key areas of interest, including fish production, vegetable farming, and poultry.

Present at the meeting were key members of the Abia State Executive, including the Hon. Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze; Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Uwaoma Ukandu; and the Principal Secretary and Chief Strategy Officer to the State Government, Mr. Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu.

With this move, Governor Otti has once again positioned Abia State as a leading destination for foreign direct investment and a hub for agricultural transformation in Nigeria.

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Abia Governor assure workers of 13th Month Salary before 20th December

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, has announced plans by his administration to pay both the December and the 13th month salaries to workers before December 20, 2024.

Speaking during a critical meeting with leaders of workers’ unions in the state including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Otti assured that just like he did last year, he will pay the 13th month salary.

“I am getting ready, before 20th, we will pay December salaries so that you can be able to shop for Christmas,” Governor Otti told the workers.

Afterwards, the NLC chairman, Ogbonnaya Okoro, commended Governor Otti for his commitment to the welfare of workers and his swift response to address salary structure concerns.

“I want to give you kudos sir, you must succeed, and we are rightly behind you. We will go extra mile to support your administration.

“So, for other issues, after now we will articulate them. We will appreciate you for the ones you have done and will appeal that you attend to the other ones,” Okoro said.

Also at the meeting, Otti berated the state chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for setting up a shadow government in the state, describing it as a treasonous offense.

He vowed to take severe legal action within the framework of the law against the opposition party.

The governor, while raising eyebrows over the development, described the move as “baseless” and “an indication of ignorance about Nigeria’s political structure.”

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Insecurity: Governor Otti bans Commercial Motorcycle Operation In Umuahia, Aba

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti has banned the operation of commercial motorcycle in Umuahia and Aba metropolis.

Kazie Uko the Chief Press Secretary to the governor in a statement on Sunday said all the security agencies have been directed to arrest anyone who violate the order for possible prosecution.

The statement read, “The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has directed the immediate ban on the operation of commercial motorcyclists, otherwise known as Okada, within Umuahia, the State capital, and Aba Metropolis.

“Effective Monday, August 14, 2023, any motorcycle seen on the streets of Umuahia and Aba townships being used for such purpose will be impounded by the security agencies.

“Also, security agencies have been directed to arrest any individual caught violating this order, for possible prosecution.

“This directive takes immediate effect.”
[14/08, 07:06] Mr Tayo: UK Warns Of Possible Terrorist Attack In Sweden

The UK Foreign Office on Sunday warned UK citizens of a growing threat of terrorist attacks in Sweden.

The office alerted the citizens that such attacks could happen in places that are frequently visited by foreigners.

“Terrorists are very likely to try and carry out attacks in Sweden.

“Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreigners,” the ministry said.

There is overall a “heightened threat of terrorist attacks globally against UK interests and British nationals” emanating from “groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria,” the statement read.

Swedish National Security Advisor Henrik Landerholm said the Swedish government and law enforcement bodies were monitoring the events and working with international partners to counter the spread of hate messages about Sweden.

On Thursday, Swedish police chief of counter-terrorism, Magnus Sjoberg, said that Sweden, along with Denmark and the Netherlands, had become a target of terrorist groups after it allowed demonstrations in its territory involving the burning of the Quran.

Several Quran-burning demonstrations have taken place in Denmark and Sweden in recent months.

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