ABIA: Ukwa West People Disown Ex-Commissioner Ubani Over Attacks On Governor Otti

The Asa people of Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State have erupted in a public display of disapproval of their son, former Commissioner for Information, Chief Don Ubani, accusing him of “incessant and needless” media attacks on Governor Alex Otti.

The community disowned him as a spokesperson for their interests.

“Don Ubani’s vituperation does not in any way or shape represent the views or sentiments of Asa people,” declared the Mayor, Newman Azu, at a press briefing attended by key stakeholders.

“He represents 24 years of a failed government. In the past seven months that Otti has been on the saddle, Ukwa West people have never had it so good, and we are proud of him.”

Ven. Onyeike further emphasized Otti’s commitment to rebuilding Abia from the previous administrations’ failures, in which Ubani actively participated.

“Contrary to lies being peddled by Ubani and his co-travellers, Otti’s administration is rather the one on a mission to rebuild Abia from the ruins of previous administrations which Ubani actively participated in.”

He pointed to the groundbreaking ceremony for the Abia Integrated Industrial Park in Ukwa land as a testament to Otti’s commitment to the region.

“If there is anyone who has an articulated programme to fix Abia, it’s Gov. Otti. Against our sad experiences under PDP’s 24 years, Otti has within seven months, done what Ubani and his party could not do,” Onyeike asserted.

Ubani, however, vehemently defended himself, claiming his criticisms were purely “to draw his attention to his administrative lapses.” He cited the lack of Ukwa representation among recent Permanent Secretary appointments and the cancellation of ABSIEC recruitments as specific concerns.

“I didn’t attack the Governor, I only saw an administrative imbalance and I said it’s wrong. I am not seeking cheap popularity, I am simply speaking for my people,” Ubani maintained.

However, his defense fell flat with the Asa community leaders. Elder Ihenyerechi Dike, Labour Party Chairman in Ukwa West, remarked, “When Don Ubani was in government he could not attract the then governor to fix the road that passed through his house, but today LP government has graded the road. The Mayor has started a water project which Ubani and his villagers will drink.”

The collective message from the Asa people is that Ubani’s attacks on Otti are not representative of the community’s sentiments. They appreciate Otti’s focus on development and believe his leadership offers a stark contrast to the alleged “failures” of the past.

Ubani, in response, defended his record, claiming to have facilitated jobs, brought electricity poles, graded roads, and renovated schools in his community. He also attributed the Model Secondary School and water boreholes to his efforts.