In a series of startling revelations, Anthony Agbazuere, former Chief of Staff to ex-Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, has disclosed details about the administration he once served, shedding light on the stipends allocated to traditional rulers and addressing allegations of abandoned projects.
Speaking at the Ehi La Uguru Day celebration on Tuesday, Agbazuere revealed that traditional rulers in Abia State received a monthly stipend of just ₦7,000 during the previous administration, while a select few earned ₦21,000. He contrasted this with the policies of the current administration under Governor Alex Otti, which, he said, has significantly increased the stipend to ₦250,000 per month.
“Before Governor Alex Otti came on board, traditional rulers were receiving a stipend of ₦7,000, while a few others got ₦21,000. But he has increased it to ₦250,000 monthly. He has shown capacity and deserves our support,” Agbazuere stated.
Agbazuere, a lawyer and an influential figure in the Ikpeazu administration, also criticized the lack of progress on major projects during his tenure. Highlighting the abandoned Abia Airport project, he dismissed claims that traditional rulers were responsible for halting the initiative.
“Somebody said that he wanted to build an airport but then claimed that it was traditional rulers who told him not to proceed with the project. An airport project we already approved, and somebody turned around to claim that traditional rulers told him not to continue. I don’t understand,” Agbazuere remarked.
He commended Governor Otti for his proactive steps, including partnering with the federal government to develop an international airport in Abia State, which he described as a significant leap forward for the region.
The former Chief of Staff also noted that advice he provided during his tenure under Ikpeazu’s administration was often disregarded, emphasizing the need for visionary leadership to address the state’s challenges.
In response, Eric Ikwuagwu, Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State, dismissed Agbazuere’s claims, characterizing him as seeking relevance after his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“The man is a loose cannon praying for political revival,” Ikwuagwu told the NEWSPAPER, stating that the PDP would not dignify Agbazuere’s remarks with a formal response.
Agbazuere’s statements have sparked renewed debate about the governance of Abia State, with many stakeholders urging transparency and accountability in addressing the issues raised.
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