Otti Declares War On Corrupt Community Leaders: ‘Abia Won’t Tolerate Thieves

Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, has urged community development unions across the state to elect only credible and upright individuals into leadership positions.

Expressing concern over the quality of persons currently holding such offices in some communities, Otti made it clear that his administration would not tolerate leaders with questionable character.

“We don’t want thieves. We don’t want drug dealers, and we don’t want 419 people leading town unions. If your leader is a thief, he will teach people to steal. If he is a drug addict, he will try to influence the system to shield criminals,” the governor cautioned.

The governor gave the warning on Wednesday while receiving members of the Abia State Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASAITU), led by President-General George Mgbeorurukwe, at Government House, Umuahia.

Otti emphasized that his government is committed to knowing the leadership structure of town unions in order to guarantee integrity and accountability. He charged the union leaders to return to their communities and ensure credible leadership that the people can be proud of.

“Go back and ensure that your communities produce leaders that inspire pride and confidence,” Otti instructed.

He also called on the unions to collaborate with government and security agencies by providing reliable intelligence to help combat crime in rural areas.

During the visit, Otti approved the union’s request for a parcel of land to build its state office and assured them of his administration’s continued support.