Former Minority Leader of the Abia State House of Assembly, Chijioke Chukwu, has accused the current state legislature of failing to provide effective checks and balances on the executive arm led by Governor Alex Otti. Chukwu’s remarks come in response to claims by the Speaker of the Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, who recently rated Otti’s performance highly.
Chukwu, who represented Bende North in the 7th Abia State House of Assembly and now serves on the North West Development Commission representing the South-East, described the Assembly’s conduct as “regrettable.” He criticized Emeruwa for aligning too closely with the executive, alleging that such actions undermine the legislature’s independence and could hinder the state’s progress.
“It is unfortunate that the Speaker, who lacks the courage to challenge the executive’s activities, had the temerity to claim that the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, is no match for Governor Otti,” Chukwu stated. He further accused the current Assembly of enabling the mismanagement of Abia’s resources by failing to scrutinize government policies and activities effectively.
Chukwu contrasted the current legislature with its predecessors, noting, “The Abia State House of Assembly used to be a firebrand, rigorously checking the executive’s activities through thorough scrutiny of policies and programs.”
The controversy stems from a recent press conference where Speaker Emeruwa praised Governor Otti’s developmental strides, particularly in Aba, while dismissing the contributions of Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu. Emeruwa’s comments have sparked debate over the Assembly’s role in holding the executive accountable.
Chukwu’s allegations highlight growing concerns about the independence of the Abia State legislature and its ability to safeguard the interests of the state’s citizens.
