By Philip Daniel Iroegbulam


I have said it before, and I will say it again: never support mediocrity or recklessness in governance. Unfortunately, my warnings were misunderstood by some as opposition rhetoric, but the consequences of reckless leadership have now come full circle. Today, we witness how the very people entrusted with managing the affairs of our Local Government Areas—the Governor Alex Otti-appointed Transition Committee (TC) executives—are suffering due to no fault of their own but the gross mismanagement and recklessness of the governor himself.


Governor Otti’s failure in handling the Local Government Area (LGA) elections and its timetable has exposed a fundamental flaw in his administration’s commitment to transparency, good governance, and adherence to constitutional provisions. The abrupt and arbitrary decision to ban sitting TC executives from contesting the upcoming elections, despite their faithful service in managing LGAs during a period of political uncertainty, reflects poor leadership and a disregard for constitutional norms.


Let me be clear: this ban is unjust and unfair to the TC executives, who have been punished for circumstances beyond their control. They were not responsible for the delay in elections or their appointments. Instead, they were carrying out their duties to the best of their abilities, in the service of the people of Abia State.


What is even more concerning is Governor Otti’s blatant disregard for constitutional provisions regarding the resignation of appointed government officials before contesting in elections. The Nigerian Constitution is explicit in its requirements, and political appointees must be given sufficient notice and opportunity to resign in line with the law. Instead, the governor’s failure to properly manage the election timetable, coupled with a lack of adequate communication to the appointees, has left the TC executives in a position where they are now banned from contesting—a clear violation of their rights.


This reckless approach to governance does not only affect the individuals involved but has far-reaching implications for the entire state. When we allow mediocrity and recklessness to guide decision-making, we erode the principles of fairness and democracy that we should hold dear. This moment should serve as a reminder to all of us: when we ignore bad governance, it will eventually affect everyone, regardless of political alignment or position.


I urge Governor Otti and his administration to immediately reconsider this unjust ban and allow for a more transparent and fair process that respects constitutional provisions. The TC executives must be allowed to resign and contest if they so choose, as is their right under the law.


Let us learn from this moment and recommit ourselves to supporting leaders who demonstrate accountability, competence, and respect for the rule of law. Abia State deserves better than reckless governance that undermines democracy and disrespects the contributions of those who have served our people in good faith.