1) INTRODUCTION
We have read with dismay the recent statements attributed to Honourable Obinna Ichita containing unsubstantiated allegations and mischaracterizations against the person and legacy of Distinguished Senator Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe.
While we acknowledge the right to political expression and dissent, we must categorically reject the baseless accusations and deliberate distortions of fact contained in these remarks. This rejoinder seeks to provide a comprehensive record of Senator Abaribe’s exemplary service to the people of Abia South, his
unwavering commitment to democratic values, and his immense contributions to the development of not just Abia State but Nigeria as a whole. The Senator’s record speaks for itself and deserves to be presented without the filter of political opportunism that characterizes these attacks.
2) Senator Abaribe’s Distinguished Legislative Contributions
2.1 Key Legislative Achievements And Committee Leadership
- Legislative Record: Senator Abaribe has sponsored and co-sponsored numerous bills and motions that have had significant impacts on national development. Among these are ongoing bills to amend the Electricity Act for better power supply, establishment of a Federal University of Petroleum and Geological Sciences in Ukwa West LGA (a project with immense potential for human capital development in the Niger Delta region), and create an Out-of-Home Media Practitioners Council of Nigeria to regulate the outdoor advertising industry. He also moved a motion to immortalize Professor Humphrey Nwosu, the former electoral chairman who oversaw the historic June 12 election, demonstrating his commitment to honoring democratic heroes .
- Committee Leadership: As a lawmaker, Senator Abaribe has held strategic leadership positions that amplify the voice of the South East in national affairs. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power in the 10th Senate, a role crucial for addressing Nigeria’s energy challenges. Previously, he served as the Senate Minority Leader (2019-2022), where he effectively led the opposition in providing constructive checks and balances to the executive arm of government. He has also chaired the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity and served as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs .
2.2 National Impact And Courageous Advocacy
Senator Abaribe’s influence extends beyond the confines of his senatorial district. He is renowned for his fearless advocacy on national issues, particularly on matters of justice, federalism, and good governance. His historic call for President Muhammadu Buhari to resign over the worsening security situation in the country was a bold demonstration of his principle of holding executive power accountable, a stance that resonated with many Nigerians across ethnic and political divides . Furthermore, his recent strong defense of constitutional democracy and the right to freedom of movement condemning the threats made against Labour Party leader Mr. Peter Obi by the Edo State Governor showcases his unwavering commitment to the rule of law and national unity .
3 Tangible Development Projects Facilitated In Abia South
The suggestion that Senator Abaribe’s representation has not brought development to Abia South is factually incorrect and ignores the documented evidence of his constituency projects and interventions.
Table: Infrastructure And Empowerment Initiatives Facilitated
By Senator Abaribe (2023-2025)
Infrastructure & Energy*
Installation Of Solar-Lowered Street Lights:
24 communities in Ukwa West,
15 in Ukwa East,
16 in Ugwunagbo,
34 in Obingwa
Investment In 33KVA Transmission Line For Rural Electrification
₦235 million project from Ovom to Azumini
Provision and distribution of transformers in Multiple communities across the district
Road Rehabilitation And Construction
18 roads in Aba North,
32 roads in Aba South,
Opobo Road from Aba to Azumini
Education
Distribution of school bags, uniforms, shoes, and teaching materials to Schools across all 6 LGAs of Abia South
Provision for completion of a sports center Obehie, Ukwa West LGA
Employment & Empowerment Facilitated direct employment for constituents 10 placements in federal institutions (NEMSA, NDPHC, REA, NASS Hospital, TCN, NDDC, HYPPADEC, Federal Poly Nekede) |
Training programs for women and youth
Provisions secured in the 2025 Federal Appropriation Act
These projects, meticulously presented at a recent town hall meeting in Aba, demonstrate a deliberate and multi-sectoral approach to development. They address immediate needs like light and education supplies while also investing in long-term economic enablers like power transmission infrastructure and human capital development through employment and training . While critics may dismiss some interventions as “token,” constituents on the ground who benefit from light in their communities or educational support for their children see a representative who is attentive to their needs.
4 Political Consistency And Democratic Advocacy
4.1 A History Of Principled Politics
Senator Abaribe’s political journey is a testament to principled evolution in the interest of his people, not the “desperation” his detractors allege. His transition from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) was a conscious decision rooted in the shifting political landscape and a desire to align with a platform that genuinely resonated with the aspirations of his constituents. This move came after his pivotal role in the PDP and his service as Minority Leader of the Senate. To frame this as abandonment is to ignore the dynamic nature of Nigerian politics and the right of a leader to seek a platform that best serves the people’s interest .
4.2 Unwavering Defense Of Democracy And Justice
Senator Abaribe has consistently proven to be a courageous voice for justice and democratic integrity. His role as a surety for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was a profound act that led to his arrest and detention by the Department of State Services (DSS) in 2018 . This action alone demonstrates a leader willing to risk personal liberty for a cause, challenging state power in defense of a constituent. His recent condemnation of the Edo State Governor’s threat against Peter Obi’s freedom of movement reaffirms his stance as a defender of constitutional rights, stating such actions are a “dangerous threat to life” and a “direct affront to Nigeria’s unity” . This is not a man engaged in “subterfuge,” but a steadfast democrat.
5 Direct Response To Hon. Ichita’s Specific Allegations
- Allegation Of “Zero Scorecard” And Underperformance:
This claim is blatantly false and is directly contradicted by the detailed account of projects and empowerments itemized in Section 3. Beyond the 2023-2025 projects, Senator Abaribe’s 18-year tenure has seen interventions worth billions of naira attracted to Abia South. The strategy has combined immediate palliative projects with long-term infrastructure bills, a balanced approach necessary for effective representation .
- Allegation Of “Gross Ingratitude” Towards APGA:
Political movements and realignments are a fundamental aspect of democracy. Senator Abaribe’s decision to support the re-election of Governor Alex Otti and work with like-minded progressives is a strategic move aimed at consolidating good governance in Abia State. It reflects a focus on development-focused alliances rather than rigid party loyalty. Governor Otti’s “remarkable achievements” were specifically cited by the Senator as the reason for his endorsement, indicating a principled support for performance over partisanship .
- Misrepresentation Of The Nnamdi Kanu Situation:
This allegation is particularly disingenuous. No one in Nigerian politics has shown more tangible commitment to the issue of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu than Senator Abaribe. He put his freedom on the line by acting as a surety, an ordeal for which he was arrested and detained . To suggest he is now “using” Kanu’s name is a severe distortion of facts. The Senator has consistently advocated for a rule-of-law approach to Kanu’s case, and his political decisions are made independently, based on the overall interest of his people.
4 Dismissal Of Projects As “Chinese-Made Street Lights”:
This attempt to trivialize the provision of solar-powered infrastructure to 139 communities is unfortunate. Access to electricity is a critical development indicator. These lights improve security, extend economic activity into the night, and enhance the quality of life. This comment reveals a disconnect from the everyday needs of the people in the villages and wards that benefit from these projects .
5 Conclusion And Call For Focused Discourse
In conclusion, the attack on Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe is not only unfounded but also a disservice to the people of Abia South, as it seeks to undermine a record of dedicated service and tangible achievements. Senator Abaribe remains a vocal advocate for his people in the Senate, a defender of democratic principles, and a facilitator of developmental projects. His endorsement of Governor Alex Otti is based on a recognition of good performance and a desire for continuity in state-level development, a position that is both rational and patriotic.
So, focusing on what was done in one year 2023/24 which is when this tenure started is totally false. Abaribe has published in the booklet “My Service” which the 6th edition is now in print, covering the period before this tenure gives very specific details on his interventions in Abia South through the Federal Budget.
We call on the good people of Abia South and Nigeria at large to reject this brand of political discourse that relies on insults, falsehoods, and the erasure of documented history. We encourage instead a policy-driven debate focused on ideas, development records, and future plans. Senator Abaribe, known as Nmagha Ndigbo (Pride of the Igbo People), remains steadfast in his commitment to serving his constituents with integrity, courage, and an unwavering focus on the development of Abia South and the prosperity of Nigeria .
Signed,
ANDERSON OSIEBE
Executive Director
HallowMace Foundation Africa
