The Abia All progrsive Congress has described the the question asked by a journalist on Friday during the monthly media parley as an unfortunate altercation.
The Abia cacus of of the APC holds that the journalist was verbally attacked for asking questions bordering on verifiable data.
CANDID REPORTERS recalls that the journalist, Chika Nwabueze during the monthly media parley held on Friday at the government house asked governor Otti to provide veritable fact of data proving his administrative economic impact on Abians.
The governor on his part while answering questions, asked the journalist to assess the situation as a professional if he truly lives in Abia, holding the fact that education in primary and secondary level is free as well as free transportation with the electric buses which has also been free from the yultide of 2025 to February 2026 as well as other visible intervention by the his admission mentioned.
In a press release by the Abia APC made available to newsmen , it stated that “Our Governor must understand that democracy thrives on transparency, accountability anchored on credible data, and mutual respect between public office holders and the media”.
In other part of the statements, the Abia APC maintains that journalists serves as watchdogs of society and deserve respect in the discharge of their legitimate duties and they are not expected to be praise singers or take sides because they are trained professionals tasked with asking probing questions, seeking clarification on public expenditures, and demanding verifiable data to support government claims.
“As members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm, journalists play a critical role in safeguarding democracy”. The statement read.
The Abia APC insists that public office holders must be prepared to defend their policies with facts rather than emotion.
Abia APC therefore urges Governor Otti to embrace fact-based governance, which requires more than media appearances and social media declarations.
“Claims must be backed with verifiable data. In a democracy, asking for proof of performance should never be interpreted as hostility but as civic responsibility.
“Governor Otti must remember that he is now a democratic leader, not a bank executive. A calm and measured response under pressure reflects maturity and confidence. He should demonstrate that he is open to dissenting voices and committed to democratic ideals. Free journalism remains a pillar of good governance and must be respected and protected.
“The Governor is expected to be open, patient, and accountable, and ready to answer critical questions about his policies and direction for the state” The statement read.
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