Abia Assembly clarifies viral remarks by Speaker, affirms adequate funding, independence, and strong working relationship with Gov. Alex Otti’s administration.
The 8th Abia State House of Assembly has issued an official clarification following public reactions to a viral video circulating on social media involving remarks attributed to the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa.
The video, which originated from an event held on January 31, 2026, in honour of Hon. Erondu Uchenna Erondu Jnr., has generated mixed interpretations and commentary across digital platforms. In response, the Assembly emphasized that the statements referenced were informal comments made in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere and should not be interpreted as the official position of the legislature.
According to the clarification, the remarks represented the personal views of the Speaker, delivered in a light-hearted and humorous manner, and do not in any way reflect the stance or policy direction of the 8th Abia State House of Assembly.
The Assembly further reaffirmed that the Abia State Government, under the leadership of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has consistently demonstrated goodwill and institutional respect by approving all statutory and budgetary allocations required for the effective functioning of the legislature. It noted that, in several instances, the Assembly’s funding compares favorably with and in some cases surpasses allocations provided to legislative arms in other states of the federation.
The statement categorically dismissed any suggestion that the current administration has denied the House the resources necessary to perform its constitutional duties. It stressed that the Assembly has never been starved of funds and continues to operate efficiently across its legislative, oversight, and representative responsibilities.
Under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, the 8th Abia State House of Assembly maintains its constitutional independence and remains fully funded through lawful and transparent budgetary processes. As such, claims that the House is compromised, underfunded, or reliant on personal generosity were described as inaccurate and misleading.
While acknowledging the importance of public scrutiny and democratic discourse, the Assembly cautioned against misinterpreting casual remarks or elevating them to official policy positions capable of eroding public trust in democratic institutions.
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The House reiterated its commitment to serving the people of Abia State with diligence, responsibility, and decorum, while sustaining a cordial and respectful working relationship with the Executive arm of government.
The clarification was signed by the Deputy Speaker and Spokesperson of the 8th Assembly, Rt. Hon. Augustine Okezie, who urged the public to exercise fairness, restraint, and proper context when engaging with issues concerning public officials and governance.