FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
28th February 2026
MEDIA ACCOUNTABILITY AND RESPECT FOR DEMOCRATIC ENGAGEMENT: CEHRAWS REACTS TO GOVERNOR ALEX OTTI’S EXCHANGE WITH A JOURNALIST
The Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS) has carefully reviewed the public exchange between Alex Otti, Executive Governor of Abia State, and journalist Chika Nwabueze during the February media chat where questions were raised concerning the measurable economic impact of the administration’s policies on the living conditions of ordinary Abians.
As a civil rights organisation committed to transparency, accountability, and democratic governance, CEHRAWS considers it necessary to place the incident within the broader context of constitutional governance and public accountability.
1. THE ROLE OF THE MEDIA IN A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY
The Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of expression and press freedom under Section 39 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). In addition, Section 22 of the Constitution imposes a duty on the media to hold government accountable to the people.
Consequently, questions from journalists regarding the measurable impact of government policies are not acts of hostility or opposition but legitimate exercises of democratic responsibility. Media engagements, especially official media chats, are designed to provide a platform for citizens, through journalists, to seek clarity, data, and evidence regarding governance outcomes.
Therefore, CEHRAWS believes that dismissing such inquiries as “stupid” or implying that journalists are attempting to “massage opposition” risks undermining the spirit of democratic engagement and may unintentionally discourage robust public discourse.
2. THE SUBSTANCE OF THE QUESTION RAISED
CEHRAWS notes that the question posed by the journalist sought clarification on verifiable economic indicators showing how government policies have improved the welfare of the average citizen beyond infrastructure development.
This line of questioning is both reasonable and globally recognised as a legitimate governance metric. Modern governance assessment typically evaluates impact through indicators such as:
✓ Employment generation
✓ Reduction in poverty levels
✓ Cost-of-living improvements
✓ Access to healthcare and education
✓ Economic productivity and household income levels
Providing such data strengthens public confidence in governance and reinforces transparency.
3. RECOGNITION OF GOVERNMENT EFFORTS
CEHRAWS acknowledges the visible infrastructural developments referenced by the Governor, including road rehabilitation, free transportation initiatives, and expansion of primary healthcare facilities.
These initiatives are important and deserve recognition where they genuinely improve the lives of citizens. Infrastructure development remains a critical component of socio-economic progress.
However, infrastructure alone does not fully capture the total economic wellbeing of citizens, which is why citizens and journalists legitimately ask questions regarding measurable socio-economic outcomes.
4. THE NEED FOR DATA-DRIVEN GOVERNANCE COMMUNICATION
In contemporary governance systems, governments routinely publish impact assessments, budget performance reports, and socio-economic indicators that demonstrate the outcomes of public policies.
CEHRAWS respectfully submits that providing clear statistical data on:
✓ job creation,
✓ poverty reduction,
✓ internally generated revenue growth,
✓ healthcare access, and
✓ education outcomes,
would strengthen the credibility of the administration’s achievements and reduce unnecessary controversy during public engagements.
Transparency backed by verifiable data is the strongest defense against criticism.
5. CONCERNS OVER TONE AND PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
CEHRAWS expresses concern over the tone reportedly adopted in response to the journalist’s question.
Public officials occupy positions of trust and authority, and interactions with the press should reflect the highest standards of civility, tolerance, and democratic maturity. Respectful engagement with journalists reinforces public trust in governance institutions.
Democracy thrives where leaders encourage critical questions rather than discourage them.
6. RECOMMENDATIONS
In the interest of strengthening democratic governance in Abia State, CEHRAWS recommends the following:
1. Institutionalised Data Transparency:
The Abia State Government should periodically publish detailed socio-economic impact reports on its policies and programs.
2. Strengthening Government–Media Engagement:
Media briefings and chats should be structured as platforms for open dialogue where journalists can freely seek clarifications without intimidation.
3. Establishment of a Public Policy Impact Dashboard:
The government may consider developing an accessible public dashboard showing measurable progress indicators across sectors such as health, education, transportation, and economic development.
4. Civic Engagement and Participatory Governance:
Citizens should be provided more platforms to assess and discuss the impact of government policies.
5. Mutual Professional Responsibility:
While public officials must maintain decorum, journalists should also continue to approach governance questions with adequate preparation and professionalism.
7. CONCLUSION
CEHRAWS reiterates that accountability, transparency, and respect for democratic dialogue are essential pillars of good governance.
Critical questions from journalists should be seen not as antagonism but as necessary instruments for strengthening public administration and ensuring that governance remains responsive to the needs of the people.
Ultimately, the goal of both government and civil society must remain the same: the improvement of the living conditions and welfare of every citizen of Abia State.
CEHRAWS remains committed to constructive engagement with all stakeholders in pursuit of human rights, accountable governance, and social justice.
Signed
Okoye, Chuka Peter
Executive Director
cehraws@gmail.com | +234(0)808-035-1242
Facebook: @cehraws
