Governor Alex Otti Approves Over ₦50 Million Payout to Families of 265 Deceased Abia Civil Servants After 16 Years of Neglect

…ends over a decade of unpaid entitlements to bereaved families, reaffirming his administration’s deep commitment to workers’ welfare and human dignity.

In a move that underscores his administration’s empathy and dedication to fairness, the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has approved the payment of over ₦50 million to the families of 265 deceased civil servants whose entitlements had been abandoned for more than 16 years.

The announcement was made on Monday by the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Prince Sir Okey Kanu, during a press briefing at Government House, Umuahia. The briefing followed the week’s Executive Council (SEC) meeting presided over by Governor Otti.

According to Prince Kanu, the governor’s directive represents more than just financial relief, it is a symbol of compassion, justice, and respect for those who served Abia State faithfully until their last days.

“In a compassionate mood and ongoing commitment to the improvement of the welfare of Abia workers, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, has approved the backlog of payments to deceased staff in the Abia State civil service, spanning a period of over 16 years.

“This approval comes with a payment of over ₦50 million to the families of 265 deceased staff,” the Commissioner stated.

Kanu further clarified that the payment will be made directly to the verified next of kin of the deceased civil servants to ensure transparency and prevent any form of manipulation or diversion. He emphasized that the gesture demonstrates the administration’s empathy and accountability, setting a new tone for governance in the state.

“This is another welfare package made possible by this administration that sets it apart from previous ones before it,” he added.

The Commissioner also reaffirmed Governor Otti’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every worker whether serving or retired receives fair treatment and full entitlements.

He noted that the initiative is part of the governor’s broader vision to restore dignity, fairness, and compassion to public service in Abia, where for years, workers’ welfare had been neglected.

Governor Otti’s decision has since drawn praise from civil servants, labour unions, and citizens across the state, who described the move as a humane and long-overdue act that rekindles trust between the government and its workforce.