Abia State Governor Alex Otti says his administration is intensifying efforts to identify minor offenders in correctional centres across the state for possible pardon as part of end-of-year relief measures.
Speaking during his November media interaction in Umuahia, Otti said he had met with the Zonal Commandant of the Nigerian Correctional Service to review ongoing government support for correctional facilities, including new perimeter fencing and a one-storey holding centre aimed at reducing congestion. He stressed that the goal is rehabilitation, not hardening: “The idea is not to keep more people there, but to ensure those who enter do not come out as hardened criminals.”
Otti noted that earlier attempts to apply the prerogative of mercy were unsuccessful because no eligible inmates were found. He has now directed a fresh review to identify minor offenders who may qualify for pardon during the yuletide season. “In the last two years, we couldn’t find any. All the 1,900-plus inmates had serious offences. I have asked the Zonal Commandant to look into it again,” he said.
He urged residents to stay vigilant during the festive period, adding that the state maintains close coordination with security agencies and relies heavily on intelligence sharing.
The governor also highlighted recent achievements. Abia, he said, was rated the most prepared state in a national assessment. He announced that newly delivered electric buses would be deployed before year-end to reduce transportation costs.
On revenue enforcement, Otti explained that the recent sealing of some business premises followed due process through demand notices and court orders. He added that plans are underway for the state to acquire the distribution network in Umuahia and neighbouring LGAs to distribute excess power generated in Aba.
He reaffirmed that salary payments remain up-to-date and described the verified gratuity backlog of over ₦60 billion dating back to 2001 as “disheartening,” but said gradual settlement will begin soon.
Otti also disclosed improved welfare for NYSC members. The long-standing ₦4,000 allowance has been raised to between ₦20,000 and ₦50,000 depending on deployment location, and the Bende NYSC camp now has upgraded water supply, street lighting and internal roads.
