Abia State Governor Alex Otti has pledged to settle the 22-year salary arrears owed to former local government councillors, promising that payments will begin before the end of February 2026, ending decades of financial neglect.
Governor Otti made the announcement during a briefing at the Government House, Umuahia, on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
He described the initiative as part of his administration’s broader commitment to addressing historical financial obligations and promoting fairness for past public servants at the local government level.
While a detailed disbursement schedule was not disclosed, the governor assured that payments would commence within the month.
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He emphasized that clearing these arrears aligns with the government’s goals of transparency, accountability, and improved governance across the state.
Leaders of former local government councils welcomed the announcement, noting that successive administrations had failed to resolve the longstanding financial claims.
Analysts say that the move could strengthen relations between the state government and grassroots political actors, while also boosting public confidence in the administration’s commitment to justice and good governance.