Governor Alex Otti has revealed that Abia State will not be reimbursed by the Federal Government for funds spent on rehabilitating federal roads within the state. According to him, the response from the authorities was that if the state intends to recover its investment, it should consider tolling the roads.
However, Governor Otti has taken a principled stance against this suggestion. He has expressed that imposing tolls would place an additional financial burden on residents who are already navigating economic challenges, and he does not consider it appropriate to subject them to further indirect taxation.
Historically, there has been a precedent for cooperation and fairness in this regard. Previous administrations, including those of Presidents Obasanjo, Yar’Adua, Jonathan, and even Buhari, approved reimbursements to states that undertook the rehabilitation of federal roads, regardless of political affiliation. This approach reflected a recognition of shared responsibility and the need to support subnational governments acting in the national interest.
The current position raises broader concerns about fiscal policy priorities and the balance between revenue generation and public welfare. While infrastructure funding remains critical, it is equally important to consider the socio-economic realities of citizens and avoid policies that may disproportionately impact them.
Governor Otti’s decision underscores a governance philosophy that prioritizes the welfare of the people over cost recovery measures that could exacerbate their financial strain. It also invites a wider conversation about equitable federal-state collaboration and sustainable approaches to infrastructure development in Nigeria.