Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti has signed into law, the newly-amended Abia State Security Trust Fund Bill.
Speaking while assenting to the bill recently passed by the Abia State House of Assembly, Governor Otti said that he had no doubt that “having signed the bill into law, the members of the trust fund have now been empowered to swing into action.”
The Governor said that most of the security fundings in the State had been from the State Government but the establishment of the Abia State Security Trust Fund, the State would have more institutionalised ways of funding.
“As we sign the bill into law, I have no doubt that having given you (BOT members of the trust fund) the teeth, you can now bite.
“Most of the funding for security endeavours in the State has been done by the State and public-spirited individuals. With the establishment of the trust fund, we will have a more organised and institutionalised ways to address funding of security,” Gov. Otti stated.
He used the opportunity to call on Abia people and residents who love the State to keep on giving support to all the security endeavours which have lead to relative peace and security in the State. He assured that he would not rest on his oars in maintaining security as it remains a priority in the agenda of his government.
The State Chief Executive thanked the State House of Assembly for amending the law and appreciated the Abia State Security Trust Fund Board of Trustee members for their contributions.
“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 in order a bill and that we did with your consent. We moved to the House of Assembly and the House of Assembly approved it.
“I will like to thank you once again and thank the Speaker and members of the House of Assembly for the support we have enjoyed from you.
“I also want to underscore the support you have been giving from your own individual basis not as a trust fund but in your different communities and anytime we call upon you, given where we place security, you do not hesitate to respond,” Gov. Otti stated.
Presenting the bill to the Governor for signing on behalf of the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Augustine Meregini, explained that the essence of the Abia State Security Trust Fund Law No 5 of 2024 is to create a trust fund that would have the responsibility of raising funds for the acquisition of necessary security equipment and that would engender the smooth operation of security in the State.
He said that the bill was thoroughly handled with the expectation that the implementation of the law would actualise more improved security in the state.
Earlier, the Board of Trustee Chairman, Abia State Security Trust Fund, Mr. Obiamaraije Stanley, on behalf of other members thanked the Governor for assenting to the bill.
He also appreciated him for the support the members have enjoyed so far and assured that they are committed to serving in the trust fund.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, and other government officials were present at the signing of the bill.
