Abia State Governor Alex Otti has reiterated that strict adherence to asset declaration remains a fundamental requirement for all public office holders in Nigeria, emphasizing that no official is exempt from statutory obligations.
Otti made the statement on Tuesday while receiving senior representatives from the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) South-East Zone at the Government House in Umuahia. He directed all appointed officials and civil servants covered by the law to submit their financial disclosures immediately, stressing that transparency is a baseline expectation for governance. The governor confirmed that he and his deputy completed their own asset declarations prior to assuming office, aligning their conduct with established administrative protocols.
Addressing reports of delayed or absent submissions, Otti instructed Secretary to the State Government Emmanuel Meribole to coordinate with relevant departments to verify documentation and ensure full adherence to federal guidelines. The directive reinforces Nigeria’s constitutional framework, which mandates designated office bearers to disclose income, properties, and financial interests to the CCB shortly after taking office and to update those declarations annually. Compliance records across various jurisdictions have historically fluctuated, prompting ongoing monitoring and procedural enforcement by regulatory agencies.
During the meeting, CCB South-East Zonal Director Akinfolarin Feyishola outlined ongoing efforts to streamline submission procedures and reduce administrative bottlenecks. He requested support from the governor’s administration to expand awareness initiatives that clarify filing requirements, statutory deadlines, and the legal parameters of the disclosure process. Feyishola noted that consistent adherence strengthens institutional oversight and aligns state operations with national accountability standards.
The governor’s directive establishes a standardized reporting pathway across Abia State’s public service. State authorities will coordinate closely with bureau officials to track submissions, with full compliance anticipated in the coming weeks. The measure reflects routine administrative efforts to maintain statutory transparency and uphold regulatory standards within Nigeria’s subnational governance structures.
