Public commentator and legal practitioner, Dr. Ope Banwo, has cautioned the Abia State Government against what he described as the tendency to exaggerate achievements, insisting that genuine performance speaks for itself without the need for propaganda.
Gov. Alex Otti
Dr Ope Banwo
Banwo made the remarks while reacting to recent claims by the administration of Alex Otti, noting that while visible progress has been recorded in some areas, governance must be anchored on verifiable data, transparency and measurable outcomes rather than inflated narratives.
According to Banwo, a government that is truly focused on reform and service delivery should allow facts and independent assessments to define its legacy. He argued that exaggeration, even when intended to inspire confidence, often weakens public trust and exposes the administration to unnecessary scrutiny.
“A serious government does not need to exaggerate results. When projects are real, impactful and properly executed, citizens will feel the difference without being told,” Banwo said.
He acknowledged that the Otti administration inherited significant structural and financial challenges, adding that expectations were understandably high following the governor’s emergence. However, he warned that over-celebration of modest gains could blur the line between genuine reform and political messaging.
Banwo further stressed that governance should prioritize sustainability, institutional reforms and long-term economic planning over headline-grabbing claims. In his view, the true test of the current administration would lie in its ability to strengthen public institutions, attract credible investment and improve the daily lives of ordinary Abians.
The public commentator also advised the government to embrace constructive criticism rather than dismissing dissenting voices, noting that feedback is essential for democratic accountability. He maintained that open engagement with critics would ultimately strengthen the administration’s credibility.
Responding to supporters of the government who argue that positive messaging is necessary to counter years of decline, Banwo said optimism should be grounded in reality. “There is nothing wrong with communicating achievements, but communication must not cross into exaggeration. Nigerians are smarter than that,” he added.
He concluded by urging Governor Otti’s administration to focus on consolidating its reforms, allowing independent institutions, civil society and the media to objectively assess its performance over time.
As of the time of filing this report, the Abia State Government had not issued an official response to Banwo’s comments.
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