The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Abia State chapter, has criticized Governor Alex Otti over an alleged attack on a journalist in Umuahia. The journalist, Chika Nwabueze of Don Media, asked the Governor during a media briefing to provide empirical evidence of the impact of governance on the citizens of the state.
Governor Otti reportedly described the inquiry as “stupid” and accused the journalist of being affiliated with the opposition. In response, PDP State Chairman Elder Abraham Amah expressed concern over the comments, stating that there is nothing improper or offensive about a journalist requesting data on government outcomes. He emphasized that such questions are central to responsible journalism and democratic accountability.
The PDP highlighted that the media is a constitutionally recognized institution tasked with asking questions on behalf of the people. The party urged Governor Otti to issue a public apology to the journalist, the media organization he represents, and the citizens of Abia State. The PDP stated that such an apology would reinforce press freedom, strengthen democratic norms, and restore confidence in governance.
The party further stressed that in a constitutional democracy, public office holders are accountable to the people, and governance should be assessed with verifiable data on employment creation, healthcare, education, infrastructure, poverty reduction, and general living standards. Elder Amah added that attacks on journalists undermine public discourse, erode confidence in leadership, and reflect intolerance for accountability.
The PDP concluded by calling on the Governor to respond to public inquiries with composure, humility, and verifiable data, emphasizing that transparency and accountability remain the true measures of effective leadership.
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