Abia: More Pressure on Gov Otti Over Proposed Appointment of Non-Indigene As ‘Mayor of Aba’
- Abia State Governor Alex Otti is currently embroiled in an internal conflict with his constituents that could potentially escalate into violence
- The appointment of a Mayor in Aba has sparked significant discontent among the state's elders and critical stakeholders
- The situation intensified when the governor suggested appointing a non-native individual as the Mayor of Aba
The Indigenous People of Aba Ngwa Coalition has warned Governor Alex Otti of Abia State sternly regarding his proposed appointment of a 'Mayor of Aba.'
Following their meeting on Thursday, October 19, the coalition released a statement to Legit.ng vowing to resist any action that could lead to violence in Aba city.
Source: Facebook
The said:
"..we shall resist any attempt capable of inciting violence in Aba which the actions and utterances of the Governor are pointing towards.”
Appointment of proposed 'Mayor of Aba' unconstitutional, says elders
They have characterized this move as both unconstitutional and highly inappropriate.
This coalition, representing 24 indigenous communities in Aba North and Aba South, firmly believes that selecting a non-indigenous individual as the 'Mayor of Aba' is disrespectful and an insult to the hardworking and peaceful native population of Aba.
The statement reads partly:
"That the proposed appointment of a ‘Mayor of Aba’ is not only unconstitutional, but also an aberration.
“That appointing a non-indigene as the Transition Committee Chairman of Aba is against the Abia State Local Government Transition Edict of 2002 which stipulates that the person appointed as a chairman shall be a native of the local government area.
“That appointing a non-indigene as the said ‘Mayor of Aba’, which has been said to be unconstitutional, is an insult on the sensibilities of the peaceful and hard-working indigenous people of Aba."
This statement was jointly signed by Mr Ogechukwu Ogbonna (Obama), Mr Chintua Nwagba, and Engr Obinna Greg.
As contained in the statement, the coalition also expressed deep concern that the Governor had deliberately excluded Aba from his appointments to the State Executive Council and the leadership of local markets.
Appeal court gives verdict on sacking of Governor Otti of Abia
In a recent development, Governor Otti has won a significant legal battle in Kano. The Federal High Court had previously removed him and other Labour Party candidates from their elected positions.
However, the Court of Appeal has overturned that decision, criticizing the trial court for rushing to judgment without involving all relevant parties.
The case, identified as suit number FHC/KN/CS/107/2023, was initiated by Ibrahim Haruna Ibrahim, who sought the removal of all Labour Party candidates elected in the 2023 election.
Source: Legit.ng
