Falana Hails Otti’s Achievements, Urges Political Solution To Kanu’s Case

Human rights activist and lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, says he is impressed with the various achievements of Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti just within 2 years and a few months in office.

Falana who is in Abia State for a court case disclosed this during an interview with newsmen on Wednesday, when he called on Governor Alex Otti in his Office.

The human rights lawyer who appreciated Governor Otti for the good roads, schools, hospitals and other giant strides in the State maintained that he has seen signs of good governance which was not there before now and emphasized that he is familiar with the affairs of Abia state since 1999.

“I’m familiar with the entire country. I’m familiar with the affairs of Abia State. I’ve been coming here since the inauguration of the civilian government, since 1999.

“And I can say without any fear of contradiction that I’ve seen signs of governance which were not there before. I’ve seen evidence of physical development.

“I’ve gone around. I’ve seen good roads, I’ve seen good schools, and hospitals and I am very confident that the Governor can do much more than he has done. And he owes some of us a duty to ensure that he does not disappoint.

“I’ve also spoken to people. It’s not enough to go around and see physical development without finding out from the people how they are faring. And I’ve had very positive comments from the people,” Falana stated.

He disclosed that part of his discussions with Governor Otti was how to intensify his efforts and ensure that the people remain the centre piece of the administration, adding that the people must benefit from the dividends of democracy.

Responding to a question on the continuous detention and pending court case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of IPOB, Mr. Falana described it as a political case that should be sorted out, outside the courtroom.

“I cannot comment on pending proceedings. Do you understand me? Like you said, the case was in court today (Wednesday), but I believe that it is a matter that should be sorted out outside the courtroom.

“For me, it’s a political case. And if you have a situation where some governments are negotiating with bandits or other criminal elements, there can be no basis for not having that matter resolved politically,” Falana stated.