Otti, Deputy not at war – CPS EMETU

In response to recent social media reports suggesting a rift between Governor Alex Otti and his Deputy, Ikechuckwu Emetu, Chukwudi Eke Mba, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Abia State's Deputy Governor, has vehemently dismissed these claims as baseless and malicious. Eke Mba, in a press release he personally issued, revealed that these allegations, which originated from a known content creator, are entirely fabricated with the sole purpose of tarnishing the harmonious relationship between Otti and his Deputy.

Eke Mba firmly denied the allegations that he himself is a member of the PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) and clarified that he is fully committed to his role as CPS and a dedicated member of the Labour Party (LP). He expressed deep concern over the proliferation of calls and messages he received regarding this unfounded story and urged both the people of Abia State and the wider public to disregard these reports, which seem to be aimed at sowing discord, negativity, and tension, all orchestrated by the online publisher, whom he identified as a PDP member.

In his press release, Eke Mba passionately stated, "I have been inundated with calls and text messages this evening over a deliberate false attempt to cause disaffection between the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, and his loyal Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Lekwachi Emetu, FNSE, proclaiming 'a cold war' between them." He also emphasized that the working relationship between Governor Alex Otti and Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu remains not only cordial but highly effective for the progress and development of Abia State.

Eke Mba assured the people of Abia State that the Governor and Deputy Governor are diligently and harmoniously working together to serve the state's interests and to foster its development. He reaffirmed his commitment as a proud member of the Labour Party and refuted any association with the PDP. He also reminded the public of his unambiguous dedication to ensuring the Labour Party's success at all levels during the 2023 elections.

To provide context, it's worth noting that earlier reports had surfaced, alleging that Governor Alex Otti had instructed Deputy Governor Ikechuckwu Emetu to dismiss Chukwudi Eke Mba, the Chief Press Secretary, on grounds of supposed PDP affiliation. Additionally, these reports claimed that certain responsibilities originally delegated to the Deputy Governor had been reassigned to another key appointee of the Governor.