Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has officially signed into law the newly amended Abia State Security Trust Fund Bill, recently passed by the Abia State House of Assembly.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Governor Otti expressed confidence that the law would empower the Trust Fund’s Board of Trustees (BOT) to take decisive action in improving security across the state.
“As we sign the bill into law, I have no doubt that having given you (BOT members of the trust fund) the teeth, you will now bite”, Governor Otti stated.
The Governor emphasized that while most of the State’s security funding had previously come from the Government and well meaning individuals, the new law would provide a more structured and institutionalized approach to financing security operations.
He called on Abia residents and stakeholders to continue supporting security efforts, which have contributed to the state’s relative peace and stability.
The Governor assured that he would not rest on his oars in maintaining security as security remains a top priority in the agenda of his Government.
Governor Otti also expressed gratitude to the State House of Assembly for amending the law and acknowledged the contributions of the Trust Fund’s Board of Trustees.
He explained that while a previous law existed, it was inadequate in addressing evolving security challenges noting thatb with the review, necessary amendments were made with the Assembly’s approval to create a stronger framework.
“From my understanding, there was a law that existed, but it was inadequate and did not address the changing needs of security.
“So we sat down and we thought that we need to put it in order and we did. With your consent we moved to the House of Assembly and the House of Assembly approved it”, the Governor explained.
He further commended members of the Board for their dedication to security matters, both through the Trust Fund and in their respective communities.
Presenting the bill on behalf of the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Augustine Meregini, stated that the law (Abia State Security Trust Fund Law No. 5 of 2024) was designed to establish a fund responsible for raising resources to acquire essential security equipment and ensure the smooth operation of Security Agencies in the State.
He assured that the bill had been meticulously handled and expressed confidence that its implementation would lead to enhanced security across Abia.
Speaking on behalf of the Board of Trustees, the Chairman, Mr. Obiamaraije Stanley, thanked the Governor for assenting to the bill and appreciated him for the support the members have enjoyed so far, assuring that they are committed to serving in the Trust Fund.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, along with other Government officials, attended the signing ceremony.
