…Otti said, “I am aware of those incidents and can assure you that the police are handling them.
ABIA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | Abia State Governor Alex Otti has confirmed that two separate kidnap attempts occurred in Olokoro and Ubakala, both in Umuahia South Local Government Area, allegedly carried out by men suspected to be cattle herders.
Speaking to journalists during the February media chat in Umuahia on Friday, Otti said, “I am aware of those incidents and can assure you that the police are handling them. I received reports from the Commissioner of Police on both events today. While they are isolated, we are implementing measures to prevent their recurrence.”
The incidents, which took place last week, reportedly involved suspected cattle herders who fled after intervention by the Abia State Homeland Security operatives.
Governor Otti also reviewed his administration’s achievements across all sectors of the state’s economy and provided updates on the recently flagged-off Enyimba Hotel reconstruction, slated for repairs. He stated that the hotel is largely owned by the state: “Abia State Government holds 80 per cent, while the remaining 20 per cent belongs to families of ACCIMA, Aba Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, members who had invested in the hotel. Valuation confirmed their entitlement to 20 per cent. The state does not intend to retain the full 80 per cent; interested investors can purchase shares now.”
Otti explained that international hotel managers Radisson Blu were engaged early to ensure compliance with five-star standards. “They brought in their expertise before we started any work. The hotel must meet minimum standards, and they also need confidence in the economy and its management before signing agreements, which they did last year. They will manage the property under their brand while we retain ownership or allow other investors to participate.”
On environmental concerns, particularly the Aba River, where residents have been dumping waste, Otti outlined plans for dredging to restore proper flow. “The river, which originates from the Blue River, is being dredged. We are also planning a leisure and entertainment centre along it. Companies discharging waste into the river will face punishable penalties, as it is irresponsible and affects people who rely on the water.”
Regarding the airport project initiated by the previous administration, Otti said, “The EFCC has been inviting individuals whose funds were involved. We are pursuing the matter and are confident that, at the right time, we will recover the state’s money.”
