Hon. Tobias Egeonu, a public affairs analyst and former House of Assembly aspirant under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), has issued a formal letter of apology to the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, over a controversial publication made on his Facebook wall in December 2024.
In the open letter published on his Facebook page on Monday, and addressed directly to the Governor, Hon. Egeonu, a well-known critic of the governor, admitted that the publication, currently the subject of a legal case at the Federal High Court in Bwari, Abuja, contained “inappropriate references” that may have caused embarrassment or negative consequences for the Governor.
“I take full responsibility for my actions and I am truly sorry for the offense and any harm caused Your Excellency,” Egeonu wrote. “I understand that the publication does not reflect the standards expected of me as a public affairs analyst.”
He went on to clarify that his actions were fuelled by longstanding political grievances, dating back to the 2015 APGA primaries in which he alleged Governor Otti favoured another aspirant, Ikedi Ezekwesiri, over him for the Umunneochi State Constituency ticket.
He also cited frustrations over political developments in the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), which he claims cost him a chance to serve as Deputy Chairman of his local government.
Regarding a portion of the controversial post that referenced Governor Otti’s time at Diamond Bank, Egeonu admitted he had lifted it from an online platform, Nairaland, but accepted full responsibility nonetheless.
The embattled activist disclosed that he has since taken down the publication and vowed never to engage in such conduct again while also acknowledging being rebuked by friends, followers, and even members of the clergy, prompting a decision to “retrace and redress” his steps.
“I am committed to regaining the confidence and trust of the public by this deep-rooted apology,” he concluded. “Sir, I hope you find a place in your heart to forgive me. Once more, I apologize.”
Governor Otti has yet to issue a formal response to the letter as of press time.