RismadarVoice Reporters
May 2026
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, says his administration has successfully dislodged kidnappers, armed robbers, and other criminal gangs from forests and communities that were previously under their control.
Speaking during his third anniversary address at the Umuahia Township Stadium, Otti said several parts of the state were heavily affected by insecurity when he assumed office, with criminal groups operating camps in forest areas and launching attacks on residents.
According to him, coordinated efforts with security agencies and local stakeholders have since restored government control and significantly improved safety across affected communities.
“Security was a major challenge in the state three years ago. Several communities were held hostage as kidnappers, armed robbers, and other criminal groups set up camps in the forests,” he said.
The governor commended security agencies and traditional rulers for their role in stabilising the state, while urging residents to continue providing useful information to support ongoing security operations.
Otti also highlighted environmental and governance reforms under his administration, noting that thousands of truckloads of waste were cleared shortly after he assumed office, improving sanitation conditions across the state.
He further stated that salary and pension payments had been regularised, saying civil servants and retirees no longer experience the delays and hardships previously associated with payment systems.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to prudent financial management and promised continued focus on security, infrastructure, and service delivery in the state.
