By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s firm commitment to merit-based appointments, declaring that competence,not ethnicity or political affiliation, remains the sole criterion for public service roles in the state.
In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State, Ctz. Ukoha Nhoku Ukoha, the governor made the statement on Saturday at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia during the wedding ceremony of his Aide-De-Camp (ADC), ASP Emeka Charles Ogbonna, and his bride, Trinity.
Speaking at the event, Otti emphasized that his administration prioritizes performance and capacity above all else, noting that his choice of appointees is guided strictly by what individuals can offer.
“You can see that it’s a cross-cultural union. That is what the world should be,” the governor said while commending his ADC for marrying outside his state of origin. He disclosed that Ogbonna emerged top among seven candidates he interviewed for the ADC position, adding that he was unaware of the officer’s background at the time of selection.
“What gave him the job is merit,” Otti stated.
The governor also used the occasion to explain the rationale behind the appointment of Ezinne Chinyere Benjamin-Kalu as Chairman of the Abia State University Teaching Hospital Management Board. According to him, her emergence followed a rigorous selection process in which she clearly outperformed six other candidates.
“I personally interviewed seven people for that role, and the lady we chose not only came first, but the gap between her and the second candidate was very wide,” he said.
Otti noted that her international exposure and professional network gave her a distinct edge, stressing that such qualities are critical for driving improvements in the state’s healthcare system.
“We don’t care whether she belongs to APC, PDP, or any other party. We don’t even care where she comes from. What matters to us is what is in her brain and the value she brings,” the governor added.
Reiterating his administration’s philosophy, Otti said all appointments, from permanent secretaries to the recruitment of over 5,000 teachers and the ongoing process to hire 4,000 more, have been guided by meritocracy.
“We want results. We want performance. When it comes to governance, only competence counts,” he declared.
The governor said this approach ensures that capable individuals are placed in positions where they can effectively impact governance and service delivery.
Otti also congratulated the couple, praying for a blessed union filled with joy, prosperity, and children who would grow to make meaningful contributions to society.
He further paid tribute to former Cross River State Governor, Donald Duke, for hosting the Abia delegation during traditional marriage rites in Cross River State.
The ceremony, chaired by retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, Azubuko Udah, drew a large gathering of government officials, political figures, and business leaders.
In his vote of thanks, the groom, Emeka Charles Ogbonna, expressed appreciation to the governor and all attendees for sharing in their celebration.
