The Media Team of Obinna Oriaku feels compelled to address the recent comments made by Ferdinand Ekeoma, Media Adviser to Governor Alex Otti, in his statement titled “Obinna Oriaku: A Betrayer of His People Seeking Redemption Through Falsehood.” This predictable reaction which is a troubling trend of misinformation that diverts attention from the pressing issues confronting the people of Abia State to Iko onuu instead of addressing issues.
It is disappointing to witness the current administration’s reliance on media manipulation, particularly regarding the 19.1km Itungwa-Umuoba road project, which is a World Bank initiative that predates Governor Otti’s tenure. The attempt to misrepresent this project’s significance is not just misleading; it is an affront to the intelligence of the Abia populace.
Initially, one might have attributed the administration’s misleading statements to a lack of understanding or poor media strategy. However, it has become increasingly clear that this pattern of deception is a deliberate tactic aimed at obscuring the administration’s myriad shortcomings. As a former public servant, I have consistently acknowledged the challenges within our system, and I must emphasize that the current administration’s actions have far surpassed previous administrations in terms of mismanagement of our resources and inefficiency.
To date, the already
claimed N6.5 Billion Naira
Recreational Facility as stated in Abia State 2023 financial report remains conspicuously unseen anywhere in Abia, the distribution of N4.2 Billion Naira worth of farm seedlings as claimed in the financial report has yet to materialize though the rains are going . Furthermore, we demand transparency on the list of beneficiaries regarding the allocation of N11 Billion Naira for school renovations, as the promised outcomes have yet to be realized. Till date, the list of the 108 direct labour roads is missing ,Moreso ,when as a policy the state government hide cost of project from Abians.
It is instructive to note that Enugu state just announced the award of Enugu International Hospital to be managed by Evercare Hospital Group Lagos at N50 Billion Naira, they awarded the construction of 380 (Three hundred and Eighty room hotel at International conference centre to CCCEC at N40 Billion Naira . We can never know the cost of Innosion vehicles supplied in Abia not to talk of roads .
It is noteworthy that, for the first time, the recent flag-off address acknowledged the contributions of past administrations in the RAAMP transaction. This recognition, while long overdue, is a welcome step toward transparency and accountability. My unwavering commitment to advocating for good governance has been a cornerstone of my public service even while I served, my decision to leave government in 2019 after the Chief of staff saga was rooted in a profound desire for accountability and integrity.
While I have refrained from delving into the failures of previous administrations in detail, it is essential to highlight the alleged misconduct within the current (New Abia ) government, including claims of bribery amounting to 120 million Naira which contributed to the delay in re award of the RAAMP project. This raise serious questions about the integrity of the bidding process of the contract .
Let us not overlook the tangible accomplishments of Obinna Oriaku during his tenure as Commissioner for Finance to his immediate community ( Owerrinta in IsiaAla Ngwa South)His leadership led to the successful initiation and completion of vital infrastructure projects by the Government he served between 2015 to 2019, including:
- The construction of the 4.7km Mbutu-Umuojima-Owerrinta by-pass , a project that has dramatically increased land value in the region and opened that location to daily business.
- The 15km Umuochala to Achara Umuehi
to Abiayi road, with 4km completed before his departure from office. - The personal provision of counterpart funding for the re-construction of a long-overdue village market (Afor Osukwu) and rural electrification projects in Umuochala. The provision of electric transformers and construction of UBEC schools through the state Government.
Mr. Oriaku’s dedication to his constituents is evident, as demonstrated by the overwhelming support he received during the 2019 Governorship election and even till date , where his local government ward emerged as the top performer among the ten wards in Isi Ala Ngwa South . Go and verify.
We had anticipated a detailed report on the number of roads, and other developmental projects constructed in Isi Ala Ngwa South since this administration took office, as well as updates on the status of the Umuikka-Umuene road project which the contractor has demobilzed from site . Instead, we continue to witness unfulfilled promises and a lack of accountability.
In conclusion, we assert that the current administration has made no financial contributions to the RAAMP project. If the reported 600 million naira payment is accurate, it likely pertains to the second phase of RAAMP, which is at initiation stages .
Gradually, the wool is falling off the eyes of most people as they have come to the realisation that ” what was ordered is not what is being served. The goodwill that welcomed this administration is evaporating daily as we have seen that there is no difference between Egypt and Israel .
Our People deserve transparency, accountability, and effective governance. Obinna Oriaku remains steadfast in his commitment to advocating for the best interests of Abians and will continue to hold the government accountable for its promises and responsibilities as responsible citizens should.
Obinna Oriaku’s Media Team
05-10-2024
