Femi Falana Extols Gov. Otti’s Achievements, Urges Political Solution to Nnamdi Kanu’s Case

Renowned human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has praised the developmental strides of Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, describing his performance in office as evidence of good governance.

Falana made the commendation on Wednesday, October 8, during a courtesy visit to Governor Otti at the Government House, Umuahia. The Lagos-based lawyer was in Abia State for a court case and took time to assess the progress made under Otti’s administration.

Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Falana said he has closely followed Abia’s political and developmental journey since 1999 and noted that Otti’s administration has brought visible transformation across key sectors.

“I’ve been coming to Abia since the return of democracy in 1999. I can say without fear of contradiction that I’ve now seen signs of governance which were missing before. I’ve seen good roads, schools, and hospitals,” he said.

He added that the level of infrastructural renewal and human-focused policies under Otti signal a new direction for the state.

“I’ve also spoken to people. It’s not enough to see development projects; one must also hear from the people. From all I’ve gathered, the feedback is very positive. The governor must not disappoint those who believe in him,” Falana stated.

He revealed that his discussions with the governor centered on deepening people-oriented governance and ensuring that every policy directly benefits citizens.

On the ongoing detention of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Falana maintained that the matter is political and should be resolved outside the courts.

“I cannot comment on a pending case, but I believe the issue should be settled politically. If governments are negotiating with bandits and other armed groups, then there is no reason this matter cannot be resolved through dialogue,” he said.

Addressing questions on the state of Nigeria’s judicial system, Falana lamented the widening gap in access to justice for ordinary citizens. He called for reforms that would promote alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and strengthen customary judicial systems.

“Justice in Nigeria today serves the elite more than the poor. Political cases move fast because they are time-bound, but ordinary cases drag for years. The judiciary is no longer the last hope of the common man but that of the elite,” he said.

He urged both federal and state governments, including Abia, to invest in the reform of customary courts and community-based justice systems that ordinary people trust and access daily.

“Our people already depend on traditional rulers and community leaders to settle disputes. Government must recognize and strengthen these systems to make justice more inclusive,” he concluded.

Falana’s visit comes as Governor Otti continues to receive national commendations for infrastructural renewal, fiscal transparency, and human capital development since assuming office.