Alex Otti Lifts 10-Year Promotion Ban on Abia Polytechnic, Clears 33-Month Salary Arrears

Alex Otti, the Governor of Abia State, has taken a decisive step in reforming the state’s educational sector by lifting the 10-year promotion embargo on staff at Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, formerly known as Abia State Polytechnic, Aba. This bold move reverses a decade of stagnation that saw employees denied career advancement opportunities, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among staff members.

Alex Otti’s administration has not only reinstated regular promotions but also abolished the controversial “National Promotions” policy previously enforced within the institution. His decision underscores his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the polytechnic by improving working conditions, boosting staff morale, and ensuring that qualified personnel receive their due recognition.

Otti Clears 33 Months of Salary Arrears

Alex Otti has also begun the process of clearing 33 months’ worth of unpaid salaries owed to polytechnic staff by previous administrations. This marks a significant departure from past leaderships that accumulated salary arrears, leaving many workers in financial distress. The payment process has commenced, with employees receiving long-overdue funds that had been withheld for nearly three years.

Alex Otti’s government has structured the repayment into tranches, ensuring that funds are distributed efficiently without disrupting other state financial obligations. This strategy aligns with his broader financial recovery plan for the state, which aims to restore trust in government institutions and eliminate the backlog of unpaid salaries across all state-owned tertiary institutions.

Alex Otti’s Financial Strategy and Commitment

Alex Otti has implemented a robust financial framework to address the salary arrears issue systematically. His administration has allocated a monthly sum of N1.5 billion to clear the N17.6 billion backlog of salaries owed to state-owned tertiary institutions, including Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic. This structured approach guarantees a steady resolution of outstanding debts while maintaining other state expenditures.

Otti’s financial prudence is evident in his methodical approach to managing the state’s economy. Rather than making unsustainable lump-sum payments, he has devised a long-term solution that ensures employees receive their entitlements while the state continues to fund other critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

Public and Staff Reactions to Otti’s Reforms

Alex Otti’s actions have sparked widespread jubilation among polytechnic staff and the general public. Employees have confirmed receiving bank alerts, signaling the disbursement of their long-overdue salaries. This has restored confidence in the state government, with many expressing gratitude for Otti’s commitment to their welfare.

Beyond the staff, the governor’s reforms have also resonated with students and the broader Abia State community. Parents and guardians of students at the polytechnic have applauded Otti’s administration for taking concrete steps to stabilize the institution, ensuring that academic activities proceed without disruption.

Historical Context: Challenges Before Otti’s Intervention

Alex Otti’s intervention is a sharp contrast to the financial mismanagement of previous administrations. In 2022, former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu attempted to address part of the salary crisis by approving N450 million for Abia Polytechnic workers. However, this effort only covered four months’ worth of salaries, leaving a massive backlog that continued to accumulate.

Before Otti assumed office, the polytechnic faced financial difficulties that threatened its accreditation and academic standards. The prolonged non-payment of salaries led to frequent staff strikes, disrupted academic calendars, and a decline in student enrollment. By tackling these longstanding issues, Otti is setting a new precedent for accountability and responsible governance.

Otti’s Vision for Abia’s Educational Sector

Alex Otti’s long-term vision extends beyond clearing salary arrears and lifting the promotion embargo. His administration is focused on implementing lasting reforms that will ensure the financial sustainability of Abia’s educational institutions. Plans are underway to establish more transparent funding mechanisms, prevent salary delays, and enhance the overall quality of education in the state.

Otti’s leadership continues to redefine governance in Abia State. By prioritizing education, staff welfare, and financial stability, he is not only addressing past challenges but also laying a strong foundation for future generations. His actions signal a new era of accountability, transparency, and progress for Abia’s educational institutions.