The Deputy Chairman of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), Catechist Ambrose Jonah, has reaffirmed his commitment to delivering on the mandate of Governor to ensure that Abia State remains one of the cleanest states in Nigeria.

Speaking on Sunday, the ASEPA Deputy Chairman stated that his appointment to oversee the Umuahia Zone, which covers the Abia central area of the state, was a responsibility he is determined to handle with dedication and integrity.

According to him, the governor entrusted him with the position because of the confidence he has in his commitment to public service.

“I believe the governor, Dr. Alex Otti, appointed me to oversee ASEPA Umuahia Zone because he has seen the level of commitment in me. When he gave me the appointment, he told me he was confident I would not disappoint him, and I assured him that I would live up to that expectation.”

He explained that his work at ASEPA is aimed at complementing the governor’s efforts to improve environmental sanitation and maintain cleanliness across the state.

The Deputy Chairman noted that he works tirelessly to ensure that Abia maintains a high standard of environmental cleanliness.

“I work round the clock to ensure that Abia State remains the neatest state in Nigeria. Even the Chief of Defence Staff recently commended the state’s level of cleanliness during his visit. We have started this initiative, and we will continue to sustain it.” 

He further noted that maintaining a clean environment was one of the promises made during the administration’s campaign to the people of Abia State, stressing that the government remains committed to fulfilling that pledge.

The ASEPA Deputy Chairman also commended residents of Umuahia and its surrounding communities for their cooperation and support in maintaining environmental sanitation.

He revealed that the agency regularly conducts public sensitization programmes to educate residents on proper waste disposal and environmental responsibility.

According to him, ASEPA has also extended its awareness campaigns to secondary schools in order to instill the culture of cleanliness among young people.

“We believe in catching them young by teaching students that cleanliness is next to Godliness.”

He added that the agency strongly discourages indiscriminate littering of the environment and the roaming of cattle within the state’s streets, noting that compliance among residents has been improving steadily.

While acknowledging that there is still room for improvement, he expressed optimism that Abia State will continue to make significant progress in maintaining a cleaner and healthier environment.

A traditional ruler, HRH Eze Sir Charles Onorchie Ukattah, has defended Governor Alex Chioma Otti over recent reactions to his remarks during a media interaction, stating that the governor acted within his rights to express himself.

Speaking on the matter, the monarch said the controversy surrounding the exchange between the governor and a journalist was largely a result of misunderstanding and misinterpretation. According to him, the governor was merely seeking clarification and attempting to ascertain whether the journalist was fully conversant with the issues being raised.

He noted that it appeared contradictory for a journalist to acknowledge that the people of Abia State are satisfied with the governor’s performance, while simultaneously questioning the economic impact of his administration without presenting specific facts.

“You said he has done well, and then you turn around to ask for details of what he has done. That suggests you may not be following the facts closely. Assessments of this nature should be based on verifiable information, not sentiment,” the traditional ruler stated.

HRH Ukattah emphasized that while journalists have the constitutional right to ask questions, public officials equally have the right to respond and express their views. He added that opinions often differ and that divergent perspectives are part of a healthy democratic process.

He further dismissed claims that the governor insulted the journalist, saying he had not seen any evidence to support such allegations. From what he gathered, he described the incident as a matter of semantics and differing interpretations rather than deliberate hostility.

“It is likely a case of misconception or misunderstanding. I do not believe anyone intended to hurt the other. It was simply an exchange shaped by how the questions and responses were framed,” he concluded.

A clergy of the Assemblies of God Church, Pastor James Iroziri, has described Barrister Monday Ubani, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), as an outstanding legal practitioner whose impact extends far beyond the courtroom into meaningful community development.

Speaking during an interview, Pastor Iroziri commended the Senior Advocate of Nigeria for his contributions to employment generation, youth empowerment, and infrastructural development within his community. He particularly highlighted the recent rehabilitation of a long-neglected road in Umusoko, noting that the project has brought significant relief and economic benefits to residents.

“I have known him for over 20 years, even from childhood,” the pastor said. “He is a man of integrity, humility, and deep reverence for God. You hardly hear negative reports about him. His love for his community is evident in the numerous projects he has undertaken.”

Pastor Iroziri attributed Ubani’s achievements to divine guidance, emphasizing that his fear of God and commitment to service have distinguished him among his peers. According to him, Ubani’s humility and consistent support for his people have earned him widespread admiration and prayers from community members.

The cleric noted that the newly rehabilitated road which was attracted by the Barrister, had been in deplorable condition for many years, has transformed economic activities in the area. Farmers, who previously struggled to transport their produce to markets, can now easily access vehicles that convey their goods without the burden of carrying them over long distances.

“In the past, farmers were forced to sell their produce locally at low prices because of transportation challenges,” he explained. “Today, vehicles can access the community directly, making it easier to move goods to larger markets. The difference is remarkable.”

He, however, appealed to transport operators to reduce fares in light of the improved road conditions, urging them to support local farmers and contribute to the overall economic growth of the community.

Pastor Iroziri further called on indigenes to return home and invest in the area, particularly under the leadership of Abia State Governor, Alex Chioma Otti, whom he described as a leader with the interests of the people at heart. He expressed optimism that the improved infrastructure would attract businesses and boost commercial activities in the community.

Describing Ubani’s efforts as a “great testimony,” the pastor encouraged young people to emulate his example of selflessness and dedication to community service. He stressed that positive role models such as Ubani are rare and should be celebrated rather than discouraged.

“What he has done is worthy of commendation,” Pastor Iroziri added. “Our younger generation should learn from his commitment and strive to contribute positively to society.”

He concluded by reaffirming the community’s appreciation for Ubani’s contributions and expressed hope for continued development and progress in the area.