ABIA APC Backs Chika Nwabueze on Fact-Driven Journalism, Criticises Otti’s Disposition

An incident occurred yesterday during Governor Alex Otti’s media chat, where a journalist was verbally reprimanded after raising questions seeking verifiable data to substantiate the Abia State Government’s claims.

In a democratic setting, transparency, accountability grounded in credible data, and mutual respect between public officials and the media remain fundamental principles.
The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed strong disapproval of Governor Alex Otti’s conduct during the engagement, describing it as troubling and reflective of deeper concerns about his temperament and commitment to accountable governance.
The party emphasised that journalists function as society’s watchdogs and deserve respect while performing their lawful duties. They are not meant to serve as praise singers or adopt partisan positions but are trained professionals expected to ask probing questions, seek clarity on public expenditures, and request verifiable data to support government assertions.
As members of the Fourth Estate, journalists occupy a vital position in sustaining democratic values. According to the Abia APC, when a governor responds harshly to legitimate questions, it raises doubts about his openness and adherence to democratic principles. The party maintained that public office holders should be ready to defend their policies with facts rather than emotion.
The Abia APC further urged Governor Otti to prioritise fact-based governance beyond social media pronouncements, insisting that official claims must be supported with verifiable evidence. In a democracy, demanding proof of performance should not be misconstrued as hostility but recognised as civic responsibility.
The party also reminded the governor that his current role as a democratic leader differs from that of a bank executive, stressing that calmness and composure under scrutiny reflect maturity and confidence. It called on him to show openness to dissenting views and reaffirm his commitment to democratic ideals, noting that a free press remains a cornerstone of good governance and must be respected and protected.
The statement concluded that anyone occupying the esteemed office of a state governor is expected to demonstrate emotional maturity, openness, patience, accountability, and readiness to respond to critical questions regarding policy direction.
Signed:
Abia APC Caucus