SUNTV GLOBAL CHANNEL – February 28, 2026
The International Press Centre (IPC) has strongly condemned Abia State Governor Alex Otti following a heated exchange in which he verbally attacked a journalist during a public media chat in Abia State.
The incident involved Chika Nwabueze of Don Media Group, who had asked the governor to provide verifiable data showing how his administration’s policies have improved the standard of living of residents beyond infrastructure development.
During the session, Nwabueze acknowledged ongoing road projects but pressed for measurable evidence on economic impact, transparency, and inclusive governance. However, instead of presenting figures or statistics, Governor Otti reacted angrily, questioning the journalist’s credibility and describing his question as “irresponsible.”
Eyewitnesses at the media chat said the governor repeatedly challenged the reporter, asking whether he lived in the state and pointing to visible developments such as road construction, free electric buses, and newly built primary healthcare centres as proof of progress.
The situation escalated when the governor publicly referred to the journalist as “stupid,” drawing immediate criticism from media rights groups.
In a statement signed by IPC’s Press Freedom Officer, Melody Akinjiyan, the organisation described the governor’s reaction as unacceptable and harmful to democratic accountability.
IPC Executive Director Lanre Arogundade said the journalist acted within his professional rights and that public officials must expect scrutiny, especially during media engagements.
“The governor’s response was condescending and inconsistent with the responsibilities of an elected leader,” Arogundade stated, adding that the question presented an opportunity to provide detailed performance data.
The IPC further argued that organising a media chat implies readiness to face tough questions and called on Governor Otti to issue a public apology to the journalist.
The organisation also reminded public office holders nationwide that respecting press freedom and engaging constructively with the media remain essential pillars of democratic governance.
SUNTV Global Channel reports that the incident has sparked wider debate among journalists and civil society groups over government transparency, accountability, and the treatment of reporters during official engagements.
