In a dramatic escalation of tensions within Abia State’s local governance, Governor Alex Otti faces intense backlash over new policies that critics are labeling as authoritarian and damaging to local autonomy.

During a closed-door meeting on November 13, 2024, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, outlined a series of sweeping restrictions on local government councils, sparking a wave of condemnation from council Chairmen.

The directives reportedly include a prohibition on Chairmen appointing certain key officials, including the Secretary to the Local Government Council, a role now solely controlled by the State Government.

Only the Chief of Staff and a limited number of Supervisory Councillors are now permitted, with other traditional appointments completely scrapped.

Further limitations have been placed on salaries: elected Councillors will receive a capped salary of ₦200,000, Supervisory Councillors and Personal Assistants ₦100,000, and Chiefs of Staff ₦150,000. Meanwhile, Chairmen’s total monthly compensation has been set at ₦1.5 million, with their Deputies capped at ₦500,000.

The Governor’s policies extend beyond appointments and salaries, however, raising even greater concerns. Revenue generated from major local councils, including Umuahia North and South, Aba North and South, and Ugwunagbo, will now be redirected to the state government, leaving local revenue officers reportedly inactive.

For many Chairmen, this move signifies an aggressive state takeover that compromises the financial independence of local councils.

“This level of control goes beyond governance—it’s outright dictatorial,” commented one Chairman, speaking on condition of anonymity. “It limits our ability to manage our councils and deliver for our communities.”

In addition to these restrictions, Governor Otti’s office has eliminated provisions for various support roles, including Chief Press Secretaries, Media and Publicity Officers, Special Advisers, and Assistants.

Security votes for Chairmen have also been cut, adding to frustrations over what many describe as crippling micromanagement from the Governor’s office.

The reaction from local government officials has been swift and pointed, with several Chairmen decrying the Governor’s approach as a power grab that sidelines local leaders and hinders effective governance.

As frustrations boil over, officials are questioning whether the Governor’s actions align with the principles of democratic governance—or whether Abia is witnessing a shift toward centralized control under a heavy hand.

As the fallout continues, Abia residents and officials alike are left to wonder whether these measures truly serve the people or are paving the way for a new era of centralized rule.