Otti has restored the dignity of the Abia person — ex-SSG

The immediate past Secretary to the Abia State Government (SSG), Prof. Kenneth Kalu, has said that one of the most significant achievements of the administration of Governor Alex Otti is the restoration of the dignity of the Abia person.

Prof. Kalu, who has been appointed President of the Abia Leadership Academy, made the remark at the weekend while responding to farewell speeches during a send-off dinner organised by the Abia State Government at the Michael Okpara Auditorium to mark his official exit from the State Executive Council.

The former SSG stated that although the administration has recorded notable achievements – including the construction and rehabilitation of schools, hospitals and roads, as well as the payment of salaries and pensions – the restoration of the people’s dignity stands out as the most meaningful accomplishment to him.

According to him, he is proud to have been part of what he described as a transformative government.

“My view about this administration is well documented. It is well known in the public space. But tonight, I am focusing on only one thing,” he said.

“I am happy. I feel honoured. I am proud of how far we have gone. And I am committed, very committed, to continue to work in any capacity possible to make sure that this movement, which has started, continues,” Prof. Kalu assured.

He expressed gratitude to the governor for the opportunity to serve, describing his appointment as a rare privilege. He referred to Governor Otti as an answered prayer for Abia State.

It would be recalled that Prof. Kalu had earlier proceeded on leave of absence from the state service last year and subsequently resigned his appointment to reunite with his family overseas.

In his remarks, Governor Otti thanked Prof. Kalu for his services as the pioneer SSG of his administration. He explained that his choice of Kalu was deliberate and based strictly on competence and capacity.

“The choice of Professor Kenneth Kalu was a deliberate one,” the governor said, noting that leadership strength lies in assembling capable individuals.

He emphasised that governance is not about personal interests but about serving the people.

“The paraphernalia of office is less important than the office itself. What is important to me is restoring the dignity of our people. Governance, as far as we are concerned, is not about us; it is about you – about our people,” Otti stated.

He further stressed that his administration does not consider ethnicity, religion, or state of origin in appointments, but rather talent and the ability to deliver.

“We picked him not because he is from Abam Onyerubi. I don’t know ethnicity, I don’t know religion, I don’t know state of origin. It is about talent. Once you have something to offer to this government, you are already hired,” the governor added.

The new Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribeole, also paid tribute to his predecessor, describing him as a passionate and dedicated public servant whose service to the state should inspire others.

In their goodwill messages, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Uche Emeh Uche; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Hon. Acho Obioma, described Prof. Kalu as humility personified and a stabilising force in the administration.

Similarly, the Abia State ALGON Chairman and Mayor of Isuikwuato LGA, Hon. Chinedu Ekeke; the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of ABSU, Rt. Hon. Agwu U. Agwu; and the immediate past Mayor of Ohafia LGA, Chief David Ogba Onuoha, commended Prof. Kalu for serving with intellect, humility and dedication.

They noted that he was approachable and deeply understood the principles of governance, while also thanking the governor for honouring him.