ABSU Denies 12-Month Salary Arrears Allegation, Affirms Regular Payment Under Gov. Alex Otti
Abia State University debunks reports of unpaid salaries, confirms regular staff payments and 10 months of arrears cleared under Governor Alex Otti's administration.
The Management of Abia State University (ABSU) has strongly debunked recent reports circulating online alleging that lecturers are owed 12 months of unpaid salaries. Describing the publication as “mischievous, malicious, and misleading,” the university has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and the welfare of staff under the current administration of Governor Alex Otti, OFR.
In an official statement dated 16th July, 2025, the university’s Registrar, Dr. Acho Elendu, clarified that since Governor Otti assumed office as the 5th democratically elected Governor of Abia State on May 29, 2023, salaries of verified staffof the institution have been paid promptly and regularly.
Further refuting the claims, the Registrar revealed that Governor Otti went beyond routine salary disbursement to also approve and commence the payment of 11-month salary arrears inherited from the previous administration. Of these arrears, 10 months have already been cleared, showing the current government’s strong commitment to restoring integrity in the education sector.
The false reports, according to the university, appear to stem from disengaged temporary staff whose appointments were irregularly processed by the last administration. These individuals, the Management explained, were not part of the verified workforce and were disengaged over a year ago.
“Management had made it clear that those affected, if qualified, are welcome to apply in the ongoing recruitment exercise,” the Registrar said. The recruitment, which is currently underway, is part of a larger effort to strengthen and regularize staffing in the institution—an initiative approved by the State Government.
Dr. Elendu called on the public and media to exercise caution and verify facts before sharing or endorsing narratives that could tarnish the image of the university and the State Government. He reiterated the institution’s openness to truth and fairness in all its dealings.
This development reinforces the education-focused vision of Governor Otti’s administration, which has earned commendation across the state for prioritizing salary payments, investing in infrastructure, and restoring confidence in public institutions.
