Abia state will not receive compensation for repairing federal highways, according to Otti

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has laid to rest speculation surrounding reimbursement for federal road projects undertaken by the state, stating that the Federal Government has no intention of providing compensation.

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The governor's remarks were made during his monthly media interactive session with newsmen on Friday night, where he also revealed that the Federal Government's new policy allows states to toll roads in order to recoup their expenses, should they so choose.

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Otti expressed sympathy for those who had been propagating rumors about reimbursement, attributing their actions to a lack of understanding.

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The governor reaffirmed his administration's dedication to repairing all roads within Abia, regardless of whether they fall under federal or state jurisdiction, emphasizing that all roads are utilized by the state's residents.

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Otti outlined the rigorous process involved in undertaking federal road projects, which includes extensive engagement with the federal government and obtaining written cession of the roads in question.

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Regarding the Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene Road rehabilitation, Otti noted that he expects the Federal Government to assume responsibility for compensation, given that the project was awarded without accompanying funding.

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The governor clarified that his administration always pays compensation when initiating new projects, but in this instance, he believes the Federal Government should bear the cost.

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The Abia State Government has undertaken the rehabilitation of several critical federal roads, including the Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene Road, Owerrinta-Umuikaa dual carriageway, and Ohafia-Arochukwu Road, among others.

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Otti reiterated his commitment to establishing a state police force, revealing that the new General Manager for Homeland Security is working to prepare the state for the eventual establishment of such a force.

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The governor ruled out any possibility of defecting to another party, confirming that he will seek re-election on the Labour Party platform in 2027.

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According to Otti, the Supreme Court's decision has brought an end to the party leadership crisis, and he encouraged interested Nigerians to register for Labour Party membership.

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Otti described the progress on the newly introduced electric buses as "exciting", with 30 additional buses expected to arrive by July, bringing the total number to 50.