The South-East Former Councillors Forum has commended the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, for approving and facilitating the payment of outstanding statutory entitlements owed to former councillors in the state.
The forum described the gesture as a demonstration of responsive leadership, respect for democratic institutions and commitment to the welfare of former public office holders.
In a statement issued at the end of its meeting and made available to journalists on Sunday through its National Chairman Emeka Opara and the Secretary David Uka, the forum said Governor Otti had distinguished himself among political leaders in the South-East through what it termed “a rare act of justice and fairness” to former grassroots lawmakers.
The group noted that many former councillors across the South-East region had continued to face hardship due to the non-payment of approved allowances and statutory benefits years after leaving office.
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According to the forum, the payment of the entitlements by the Abia State Government has restored hope and confidence among former councillors, while also setting a worthy example for other governors in the region.
The forum therefore called on governors in other South-East states to emulate Governor Otti by prioritising the settlement of outstanding statutory entitlements owed to former councillors and other grassroots political office holders.
It stressed that former councillors played critical roles in strengthening democratic governance and grassroots development during their time in office and deserved to be treated with dignity and fairness.
The former councillors further urged political leaders across the country to institutionalise welfare packages and timely payment systems for former elected officials at the local government level.
They maintained that adequate welfare for former public office holders would encourage selfless service, promote accountability and strengthen democratic participation at the grassroots.
The forum reaffirmed its support for policies and programmes aimed at improving governance, transparency and inclusive leadership across the South-East region.
