Chief Obinna Oriaku Reacts As Presidency Replaces His Nomination For Federal Character Commission
Former Abia State Commissioner for Finance, Chief Obinna Oriaku, has reacted to the withdrawal of his nomination as Abia State’s representative on the Federal Character Commission (FCC), describing the development as another reminder of the challenges faced by public officials who insist on transparency and accountability.
Oriaku, who was screened and confirmed by the Senate last week, said he was informed on Tuesday morning by one of the senators from the state that the Presidency had transmitted a fresh communication announcing his replacement.
In a statement he personally signed, the former commissioner noted that while the development was unexpected, he fully recognises that appointments lie within the constitutional prerogative of the President, adding that democratic actors must respect such decisions irrespective of personal sentiments.
“For clarity, I had already undergone the full rigour of the confirmation process, which concluded with my successful approval by the Senate last week. This latest development therefore speaks to a deeper reality about public service: defending democratic ethics often comes with a cost,” he said.
Oriaku alleged that a petition said to have emanated from the state government or one of its agencies may have influenced the substitution. He, however, stressed that the move would not affect his long-standing commitment to advocating for good governance and issue-based engagement in Abia State.
“I will continue to uphold fairness, speak the truth, and challenge entrenched interests where necessary. Corruption never retreats quietly; it always fights back,” he added.
The APC chieftain urged his supporters, notably within the Abia chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to remain calm, assuring them that both the state and national leadership of the party were reviewing the situation.
“If anything, this development shows how impactful our engagements have been. It reveals how strongly the voices calling for accountability are being felt,” he said.
Oriaku further confirmed that his earlier scheduled programme on Magic FM would still hold, where he is expected to discuss the Abia 2026 budget estimate.
He concluded by noting that power ultimately comes from God, and urged his supporters to remain steadfast as the party continues its mobilisation ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
