Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to eradicating corruption during the swearing-in ceremony of recently screened and confirmed commissioners by the state House of Assembly.
The event, held at the Government House Banquet Hall, saw Otti cautioning the 19 commissioners that their appointment should never be perceived as an opportunity for personal enrichment or pursuing unethical interests.
“We are here to work for the entire state, and anyone who doubts that may have entered the wrong room. As commissioners, you will face intense scrutiny given your accomplishments in your previous roles. I expect you to bring in a sense of excellence, dedication to the greater good, and a strong work ethic in your new assignments,” Otti stated.
On behalf of his colleagues, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna, expressed gratitude to the governor for the privilege and pledged to carry out their duties to the best of their abilities.
The newly sworn-in commissioners and their portfolios are as follows: Ikechukwu Uwanna (Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice), Prof Monica Ironkwe (Agriculture), Kingsley Anosike (Budget and Planning), Prof Uche Eme Uche (Education), Philemon Asonye Ogbonna (Environment and Urban Renewal), Mike Akpara (Finance), and Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo (Health).
Others include Prince Okey Kanu (Information and Culture), Chaka Chukwumerije (Lands and Housing), Prince Uzor Nwachukwu (Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs), Prof Joel Friday Ogbonna (Petroleum and Mineral Resources), Chima Emmanuel Oriaku (Science and Technology), and Nwaobilor Ananaba (Sports and Youth Development).
Completing the list are Dr. Chimezie Isaac Ukaegbu (Trade, Commerce & Industry), Ngozi Blessing Felix (Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation), Don Otumchere Oti (Works), Sunny Onwuma (Transport), Ikechukwu Monday (Power and Public Utilities), and Dr. Mathew Ekwuribe (Digital Economy/ SME).