Alex Otti, governor of Abia state, sharply rebuked a journalist during his monthly media chat held in Umuahia, the state capital, on Friday.
The governor dismissed a request for verifiable data showing measurable socio-economic progress under his administration, describing the question as irresponsible and ill-prepared.
The exchange occurred during the February edition of Otti’s routine engagement with journalists, which was broadcast live to residents within and outside the state.
Chika Nwabueze, a reporter with the BON Media Group, had asked the governor to present concrete, quantifiable evidence, beyond visible infrastructure projects such as road rehabilitation, to demonstrate how his policies since assuming office in May 2023 have materially improved economic conditions and living standards in Abia.
Responding, Otti questioned the premise of the inquiry, arguing that the journalist, as a resident of the state, should be able to observe and provide such information himself.
“You have not said anything. Do you live in Abia? So if you live in Umuahia, you are the one that will provide data,” the governor said.
He described the forum as a “serious” platform not designed to “massage opposition”, adding that while it encourages open questioning, it does not accommodate what he characterised as frivolous or poorly prepared submissions.
“You can’t come to a media chat and ask me to provide data about measurable impact on work that is being done in the state that you live in. It’s irresponsible,” Otti said.
“That we throw this open for people to ask questions doesn’t mean that people should be stupid, so let’s take this very seriously. When you come to my media chat, you must be prepared; if you don’t have a question then you don’t raise your hand.”
The governor went on to cite what he described as tangible improvements that residents could “feel”, including rehabilitated roads, operational primary healthcare centres, improved public transportation, and aspects of free education, questioning why the journalist could not recognise these changes from personal experience.