APC chieftain condemns Gov Otti over verbal assault of journalist

AI Summary

An APC chieftain in Abia State, Prince Paul Ikonne, issued a statement criticizing Governor Alex Otti for his response to a journalist’s question about transparency and economic accountability. The governor described the reporter’s inquiry as “irresponsible” and “stupid,” prompting Ikonne to label the reaction a “dictatorial outburst” and to commend the journalist’s professionalism. Ikonne, referencing his former candidacy with the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria, suggested the governor’s refusal to provide empirical evidence reflects an aversion to public scrutiny. The statement may influence public perception of the governor ahead of future electoral contests in Abia State, though no formal political action was announced.

Reliability

Reported by 2 sources: Vanguard, Blueprint. Also confirmed by new_telegraph. Also confirmed by Leadership. Also confirmed by The Nation.