Abia State Governor Alex Otti has restated his administration’s commitment to merit-based appointments, saying political affiliation, ethnicity and state of origin do not determine who gets opportunities in his government.
The governor made the remarks in Umuahia during the wedding ceremony of his Aide-de-Camp, Emeka Ogbonna, according to a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku.
Using the appointment of his ADC as an example, Otti said the officer was selected strictly on merit and not because of personal background or place of origin. He said competence and ability remain the main standards used in choosing officials.
According to the governor, his administration is focused on what individuals can contribute rather than the political parties they belong to. He said labels such as APC, PDP, YPP or any other affiliation are not priorities when appointments are being considered.
Otti added that his government is equally unconcerned about whether a person is from Abia or another state, stressing that what matters most is knowledge, capacity and the ability to deliver results.
The governor also explained the appointment of Dr. Ezinne Benjamin-Kalu as Chairman of the Abia State University Teaching Hospital Management Board.
He said the selection followed a competitive interview process involving seven candidates, adding that the eventual appointee clearly emerged as the strongest choice based on performance during the exercise.
According to him, the margin between the successful candidate and the next best applicant was significant, reinforcing the administration’s decision to appoint her.
Otti said the same merit-based principle applies across government recruitment and appointments, including the recent hiring of more than 5,000 teachers in the state.
He added that plans are also underway to recruit an additional 4,000 teachers as part of efforts to strengthen the education sector.
The governor maintained that bringing qualified people into public service is essential for efficient governance, improved service delivery and measurable progress in Abia State.
He said his administration remains open to anyone with the skills and competence needed to contribute, regardless of background, provided they can perform effectively.
