Abia Will Not Be Reimbursed for Federal Road Projects – Gov Otti

Governor Alex Otti has stated that the federal government will not reimburse Abia State for funds expended on the rehabilitation of federal roads within the state, even as his administration continues to take on such projects in the interest of residents.

Otti made the disclosure during his monthly media interaction with journalists on Friday night, where he provided clarifications on the state’s infrastructure policy and its engagements with the federal government regarding road projects.

According to him, the current stance of the federal government is that states that take up the responsibility of fixing federal roads may recover their investments by introducing tolls on those roads, if they choose to do so.

He explained that Abia State does not embark on federal road projects arbitrarily, noting that due process is always followed, including formal agreements and written approvals from the federal authorities before any intervention is carried out.

“Before we jump on any federal road, we have long engagements with the federal government, and those roads must be ceded to us in writing,” he said, stressing that transparency and accountability guide the state’s decision-making process.

Otti reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to fixing all roads within Abia State, whether classified as federal or state roads, arguing that such infrastructure serves the same population regardless of ownership.

“They’re all used by Abia residents,” he noted, emphasizing that the ultimate goal is to improve mobility, economic activity, and overall quality of life for citizens.

The governor also addressed ongoing concerns about compensation related to the rehabilitation of the Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road, one of the key federal road projects undertaken by the state.

He explained that while his administration typically pays compensation when entering any route for construction or rehabilitation, the situation in this case is somewhat different, as the project was originally awarded by the federal government but was not funded.

“Based on my understanding, if there was any compensation to be paid, the federal government should have done so because the route was actually awarded but was not funded,” he said, while adding that his position was based on available information and he could not state it with absolute certainty.

Otti highlighted several federal roads that the state has taken responsibility for, including the Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road, the Owerrinta–Umuikaa dual carriageway, and the Ohafia–Arochukwu Road, among others. He said these interventions were necessary to address years of neglect and to stimulate economic activities across the state.

Despite the financial burden, the governor reiterated that his administration is focused on delivering results rather than waiting for bureaucratic delays or funding uncertainties from higher tiers of government.

In addition to infrastructure, Otti spoke extensively on security reforms, reaffirming his administration’s intention to establish a state police structure. He said preparations are ongoing through the Office of Homeland Security to ensure that the system is ready once approval is granted.

“The new general manager for Homeland Security is working with his team to get us ready once the whistle is blown,” he said, indicating that the state is positioning itself to respond effectively to security challenges.

On political matters, the governor dismissed speculation about any intention to defect from the Labour Party. He affirmed his loyalty to the party and declared that he would seek re-election under its platform in the 2027 general elections.

According to him, the internal leadership crisis within the party has been resolved following a ruling by the Supreme Court, and he encouraged Nigerians who are interested in joining the party to register as members.

Otti also expressed optimism about ongoing transportation reforms in the state, particularly the introduction of electric buses, which he described as a major milestone in modernising public transport and promoting environmental sustainability.

He described the development as “exciting,” noting that the initiative is already yielding positive results. He added that 30 additional electric buses are expected by July, bringing the total fleet to 50.

The governor explained that the introduction of electric buses is part of a broader strategy to improve public transportation, reduce environmental pollution, and enhance efficiency in the movement of people and goods across the state.

Beyond transportation, Otti reiterated that his administration remains committed to comprehensive development across all sectors, including infrastructure, security, and economic growth.

He said his government is focused on delivering practical solutions that directly impact the lives of Abians, adding that every policy and project is designed to ensure long-term benefits for the state.

Otti concluded by reaffirming that despite the financial and administrative challenges associated with taking on federal responsibilities, his administration will continue to prioritise the welfare of the people, maintain transparency in governance, and push forward with its development agenda.