Why Alex Otti Should Refrain From Attacking Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and President Tinubu

By Prof. Kalu Eni

Abraham Lincoln once observed that while many people can endure adversity, true character is revealed when power is entrusted to a man. That timeless insight aptly reflects the current political atmosphere in Abia State.
Governor Alex Otti needs to take a moment to reflect.

History offers valuable lessons, particularly from the experiences of former governors such as Abubakar Audu and Kayode Fayemi, whose political influence waned when humility gave way to overconfidence. This is not an insult but a straightforward political reality. Unfortunately, rather than embracing restraint, some of the governor’s aides have resorted to insults and name-calling. Governance is not about shouting down critics; it is about listening to the people.
Ferdinand Ekeoma and Njoku Ukoha, in particular, should be reminded that their recent utterances do not reflect the conduct of trained media professionals. Their statements are marked by anger, insults, and a lack of balance. Instead of acting as objective spokespersons for a sitting governor, they come across as political attack dogs. Such behaviour signals panic rather than confidence. A government that is performing well does not see every dissenting voice as an enemy.
If Governor Otti truly considers himself all-powerful, he should remember the period before the 2023 elections, when he moved around Abia seeking the support of stakeholders. Power did not arrive by coincidence; it was negotiated and built through alliances. It must also be clearly stated that if Otti were to lose the 2027 governorship election, Abia would not collapse. He would not be the first governor to lose office, and the state would continue to exist and move forward.
What is increasingly evident in Abia today is a politics driven by bitterness and religious sentiment. There are open claims that the choice of deputy governor was influenced largely by religious affiliation, particularly Catholicism. This trend is dangerous and regressive. Abia State belongs to all its people, and leadership should foster unity rather than deepen religious divisions.
Transparency is another major concern. Many Abians are in the dark about the actual cost of projects, the processes through which contracts are advertised, bid for, and awarded, and who benefits from them. The lack of openness creates the impression of secrecy and backroom dealings. Governance should be transparent and accountable, not managed like a private enterprise.
Governor Otti should therefore desist from attacking Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Both leaders have demonstrated maturity and restraint. The federal presence and attention Abia currently enjoys did not emerge by accident; it is the product of goodwill and long-standing relationships. Such goodwill should not be abused or taken lightly.
Even more troubling is the growing intolerance within the state. Opposition voices are being stifled, critics are treated as adversaries, and supporters of President Tinubu are insulted merely for their political beliefs. This is not the essence of democracy. A confident and secure leader accommodates free speech and respects opposing views.
Governor Alex Otti must recognize a simple but enduring truth: power is fleeting, but respect endures. Attacking federal leaders and their supporters will not advance the interests of Abia State. History is watching, and so are the people.