Tension is mounting in Abia State as a civil advocacy group, the United Front for a New Abia (UFNA), has issued a blunt and uncompromising 14-day ultimatum to Governor Alex Otti, demanding the immediate removal of the State Accountant General, Mrs. Njum Uma-Onyemanam, describing her continued stay in office as a growing political liability that could cost the Governor his second term ambition.
In a strongly worded statement released Tuesday in Umuahia, the group accused the Accountant General of operating with “unchecked arrogance,” undermining executive authority, and systematically sabotaging the goodwill the present administration has built among civil servants, media practitioners, and the general public.
UFNA did not mince words in its assessment, declaring that Mrs. Uma-Onyemanam has “become a problem the government can no longer ignore.”
“The Accountant General is fast becoming the face of frustration in this administration. She is singlehandedly creating enemies for this government across critical sectors — civil servants, journalists, and the public — through actions that suggest impunity and disregard for constituted authority,” the statement read.
The group alleged that despite clear approvals granted by Governor Otti, payments and entitlements due to various stakeholders are being deliberately withheld, thereby fueling resentment and avoidable tension within the state.
More troubling, according to the group, are claims that the Accountant General allegedly boasts about her position and acts as though she is beyond accountability.
“We have credible information that approvals given by the Governor are being stalled without justification. Even more disturbing are reports that she openly boasts that nothing will happen, reinforcing a dangerous perception that she is untouchable,” UFNA stated.
The group warned that the consequences of these actions are already unfolding, particularly within the media space, where discontent is said to be reaching a breaking point.
“Journalists in Abia State are already mobilizing for sustained negative press against this government, not because of the Governor’s policies, but because of the conduct of one appointee who has refused to align with the vision of the administration,” the group added.
Speaking further, the Secretary of UFNA, Senior Comrade Chukwudi Ifeanyi, emphasized that the ultimatum is not a political stunt but a necessary intervention to prevent a looming credibility crisis.
“This is not about witch-hunt; this is about saving the integrity of this government. If Governor Otti is truly committed to a second term, then he must act decisively. Leadership is not only about vision but also about taking tough decisions when certain individuals become liabilities.”
UFNA maintained that the next 14 days will be critical, warning that failure to act could deepen public distrust and embolden further administrative breakdown within the system.
“The Governor must choose between protecting one official or preserving the confidence of the people. The choice is clear, and the clock is ticking.”
The group concluded by urging the Governor to act swiftly in order to restore discipline, accountability, and public confidence in the financial management structure of the state.
