In a significant political statement, a prominent leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State has intensified the demand for complete operational independence for the state's local government councils.
New Year Message Advocates for Grassroots Empowerment
Prince Paul Ikonne, a former Executive Secretary and CEO of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), issued the call in his New Year message on 2 January 2026. He urged the people of Abia to hold the administration of Governor Alex Otti accountable on this crucial issue in the coming year.
Ikonne emphasized that local governments, being the tier closest to the people, must be liberated to function effectively. He argued that the current concentration of power at the state level hinders progress and prevents communities from addressing their immediate needs directly.
Practical Benefits of Autonomous Councils
The APC chieftain outlined the tangible advantages of empowered local councils. He stated that with autonomy, they could directly deliver essential services that impact daily life. These services include:
- Construction and maintenance of local roads
- Management of primary schools and educational facilities
- Provision of basic healthcare services
- Creation of local employment opportunities
"Without empowered councils, development stalls and our people continue to suffer," Ikonne declared, stressing that grassroots democracy cannot flourish under strict state control.
A Call for Citizen Engagement and Accountability
Ikonne's message also served as a rallying cry for greater citizen participation in governance. He called on Abia residents to demand transparency, accountability, and responsive leadership from their elected officials.
"A better Abia begins when the voices of the people are heard and respected," he said. He expressed firm belief that the state's path to greatness lies in distributing power to every community, not centralizing it.
Concluding his message, Prince Paul Ikonne wished the people of Abia a happy New Year. He reminded them of their pivotal role in shaping the state's future, asserting that the journey to a prosperous Abia begins with an empowered and engaged citizenry.
