Governor Alex Otti of Abia has assured residents that the State Security Trust Fund will be transparently managed and fully accounted for under his administration.
Otti gave the assurance on Thursday during the Aba Stakeholders’ Security Trust Fund Luncheon at the Aba Sports Club.
The governor said funds would not disappear under his watch, stressing that he was trained to make money, not to steal it. He underscored the importance of security to daily life, adding that he sometimes stays awake so residents can sleep in peace.
Vowing that no criminal would escape justice, Otti said offenders “are paying and will continue to pay dearly.” He also thanked contributors to the fund, noting their support would help keep Abia on the path of stability and growth.
The Director-General of the Greater Aba Development Authority, Mr. Uche Ukeje, described the luncheon as a reflection of residents’ resolve to secure Aba and unlock its full potential. He explained that GADA has spearheaded urban renewal, sanitation, and SME growth, while fostering a business-friendly environment.
Chairman of the occasion, Chief Leonard Okoye, recalled how insecurity once forced him to hide outside Aba, but noted that the city is regaining peace. He commended Otti’s efforts to make Aba habitable and pledged N50 million to the fund, urging others to support.
Similarly, Mr. Jude Nwosu, owner of Crunchies Fast-Foods Ltd, described security as a fundamental right and vital to Aba’s development. He praised Otti’s road and infrastructure projects, which he said had curtailed criminal gangs, and donated N5 million to the fund.
Nwosu urged business owners and residents to contribute, stressing that security is a shared responsibility.
