Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has pulled another political surprise by naming Dr. Emmanuel Meribole as the Acting Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
The announcement, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Njoku Njoku, hit the airwaves on Friday in Umuahia, signalling a fresh shuffle at the top of the state’s power ladder.
According to the statement, Meribole’s rise follows the governor’s approval for the substantive SSG, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, to embark on a leave of absence — a move that has set tongues wagging and political watchers on high alert.
The document revealed that Meribole, who currently sits in the governor’s inner circle as Special Adviser on Projects, will officially step into his new shoes on Jan. 1, 2026. Like passing a baton in a relay race, the handover process kicks off on Monday to ensure the machinery of government doesn’t skip a beat.
“The transition period will allow Prof. Kenneth Kalu to work closely with Dr Meribole to maintain stability and ensure the smooth execution of the administration’s programmes,” the statement noted, painting a picture of continuity rather than upheaval.
Describing Meribole as a thoroughbred professional, the governor’s media aide highlighted his pedigree as a former Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development — a role in which he reportedly left big footprints.
“Emmanuel Meribole, a medical doctor, is a seasoned multi talented professional who retired as the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. His contributions as Special Adviser to the Governor on Projects, have helped in driving key developmental initiatives across the State,” the statement added.
His new appointment, the governor emphasized, is not a stroke of luck or political charity but a recognition of his competence, work ethic, and unwavering alignment with the administration’s vision.
