The former Nigerian Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Osita Chidoka, has blamed ex Abia State governor, Orji Uzor Kalu, for the decline recorded between 2003 and 2023 in the state.
 
According to the ex-minister, Kalu’s political fight with the Federal Government and his alleged role in the impeachment of his then Deputy, Enyinnaya Abaribe, contributed to the underdevelopment that Abia State suffered until the coming of Governor Alex Otti.
 
He made the claims while delivering a keynote lecture to mark the 35th anniversary of the creation of Abia State, in Umuahia yesterday.
 
Chidoka, who acknowledged the initial impact created by the Abia North Senator during his first four years in office, alleged that it started declining during Kalu’s second term, a situation he noted continued till 2023 when Governor Alex Otti took office and began to establish a new foundation.
 
Chidoka commended Abians for electing Otti in 2023, stating that it is not just electing people to positions but those with capacity to build strong institutions.
 
“So, Abia’s decline started in his second term; the roads were no longer being built, and then the next governors came.
 
“I tell you today, I will hold him responsible for what happened to Abia, but today is to talk about where we are heading to,” Chidoka said.
 
He commended Otti for his investment in education and infrastructure, saying that the future generations of Abia will judge Otti above those he succeeded in office.