Cutting Cost of Governance Key to Delivering Results for the People – Gov. Alex Otti
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has once again reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prudent financial management and people-focused leadership, emphasizing that reducing the cost of governance is a deliberate strategy to save money and channel resources into impactful development projects.
Governor Otti made this assertion on Friday, April 16, during the funeral service of the late Mrs. Evelyn Ada Ekeke, held at St. Paul's Catholic Church, Nunya, in Isiukwuato Local Government Area. The late matriarch, aged 85, was the mother of Hon. Chinedu Ekeke, Mayor of Isiukwuato LGA and Chairman of the Abia State Chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON).
Speaking at the event, Governor Otti stated,
“As a Government, we don’t use Government money for anything other than Government business. We don’t even allow people to steal the money. And that is why we are able to do so many of the things we are doing, because once you steal it, it is not available to be used to work. No one dime is allowed to disappear.”
He explained that his government constantly seeks cost-effective alternatives in its operations, stressing that reducing the cost of governance—a long-standing issue in Nigeria—is central to achieving sustainable development.
“Part of our strategy is to rein in and pull down the cost of governance, so that we can use that money to work for you,” he said.
The governor also responded to a light-hearted suggestion by Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyawu, Chancellor and Secretary of the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe, who praised his administration and jokingly hinted at a “third term.” Governor Otti, in his characteristic humility, dismissed the idea:
“All the people that have tried third term did not succeed. The challenge is not when you finish; it is about who you would hand over to. A good father would want his son to be better than him.”
He stressed the importance of building capable leadership successors, highlighting his administration's efforts to raise a new generation of visionary leaders who will sustain and surpass the gains being made under his watch.
The governor also paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Mrs. Evelyn Ekeke, commending her legacy of resilience, integrity, and sacrifice for her children’s education.
“Having education is not just about going to school. It takes education to understand the value of sending someone to school,” he noted.
He urged the family not to mourn excessively, noting that Mrs. Ekeke lived a fulfilled life and left behind a legacy of hard work and impact.
Hon. Chinedu Ekeke expressed deep gratitude to Governor Otti for attending his mother’s funeral despite his tight schedule, saying the gesture brought immense honor to the family.
The funeral attracted numerous dignitaries, including the Secretary to the State Government and top officials across various ministries and local government councils.
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