…………..Back State Police and Additional State Creation.
FIC Report (Abia State) – In a significant move to bolster regional stability and development, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, and his Enugu State counterpart, Governor Peter Mba, have agreed to deepen collaboration on security and governance across the South East.
Speaking to journalists after a closed-door meeting with Governor Mba at the Government House, Umuahia, Governor Otti emphasized the importance of inter-state cooperation, especially on border security and joint initiatives that ensure the safety of citizens.
“You know, we share boundaries. So, some of the things we discussed are also how to ensure that there is security and that our people are secured in those places,” Governor Otti said. “If he successfully drives away criminals from there, they could end up here. That’s why this kind of partnership is very important.”
The Governor affirmed his commitment to strengthening regional ties with other South East leaders, stressing that security cannot be fragmented. “One part of the South East cannot be secured while another part is left vulnerable,” he asserted.
Governor Otti also reiterated his strong support for the creation of the State Police, aligning with the collective demand of many state governments across the country.
“I’m completely in sync with my brother’s position. Our two states and many others have supported the creation of State Police.
I believe the Federal Government will act on this soon,” he added.
On political equity, Governor Otti backed calls for the creation of an additional state in the South East, describing it as a fair demand. “Virtually every geopolitical zone has six states, and the North West has seven.
The South East has five. I’m in full alignment with the push for a sixth state in our region,” he declared.
Governor Peter Mba, in his remarks, said the visit was aimed at fostering unity and shared development between the two neighboring states.
“I came to rub minds with Governor Otti on how we can serve our people better.
Our policies and programmes must have far-reaching impacts for our states, especially since we share common boundaries and a vision for people-centered governance,” Mba said.
The Enugu Governor, who also hailed from the private sector like Governor Otti, praised his Abia counterpart for the “giant strides” being made in transforming the state. “Our focus remains on delivering good governance.
The people are the epicentre of everything we do, and I commend Governor Otti for his leadership across several sectors,” he added.
The strategic engagement between the two South East governors signals a renewed regional front on security, development, and structural equity, strengthening the collective voice of the South East in Nigeria’s national discourse.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify
FIC Umuahia Abia State
18th July, 2025
