Otti: Why We Chose Dr. Ezinne Kalu to Chair ABSUTH
The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti has stated that his administration appointed Dr. Ezinne Kalu—wife Benjamin Kalu—as Chairman of the Board of Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH) based strictly on merit, describing her as highly intelligent and capable.
Governor Otti explained that he personally interviewed seven candidates for the position.
According to him, Mrs. Kalu not only ranked first but did so by a significant margin over the second-place candidate.
The governor made this clarification while responding to criticisms from some quarters regarding the appointment of the spouse of a political figure perceived to be from the opposition into such a prominent role within the state government.
“Recently, we made an appointment for the Chairman of the Abia State University Teaching Hospital Board. Somehow, I have been hearing noise from different quarters. I’m sure those making these comments are unaware that I personally interviewed and held discussions with seven candidates for the role. The candidate we selected did not just come first—the gap between her and the second candidate was very wide.
This process actually took place last year. We had been waiting for the right opportunity to reconstitute the board, particularly as the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Teaching Hospital was exiting. Now that the board has been reconstituted, we considered it only proper to appoint the candidate who performed best.
We do not care whether she belongs to APC, PDP, YPP, or any other political party. That is not important to us. We are not concerned about where she comes from—whether Abia, Delta, or elsewhere. What matters to us is what is in her mind—her competence and the value she brings. One of the qualities that clearly distinguished her from the other candidates was her extensive international network.
In Abia, we are open to everyone. What matters is what you bring to the table. We are not interested in your origin or political affiliation. When it is time to vote, you are free to support any candidate of your choice. But in governance, we are focused on results and performance,” the governor said.
