The International Press Centre, IPC, has condemned the verbal assault on journalist Chika Nwabueze by Abia State Governor Alex C. Otti during a media chat.
Nwabueze had asked the Governor for verifiable data showing how his policies have improved Abia’s economic and living conditions beyond infrastructure. Instead of responding, Otti verbally attacked him and told him to “shut up.”
IPC Executive Director Lanre Arogundade said, “The Governor’s angry reaction was very condescending and not expected of an elected leader who has the responsibility to give account to the citizens who voted him into office.”
Arogundade added, “Mr. Chika was within his constitutional and professional rights as a journalist to ask the governor the question. Any public figure, especially a duty bearer, should expect to be subjected to public scrutiny.”
The IPC is calling on Governor Otti to publicly apologise to Nwabueze and reminds all public office holders to be accountable and prepared for scrutiny.
