Ikwuano/Umuahia Stakeholders Vow To Deliver 60 Percent Of Their Votes To Governor Alex Otti
A grand civic reception was held by the people of Umuahia and Ikwuano in honour of Governor Alex Otti, as stakeholders across the area praised his administration for what they described as unprecedented developmental strides in Abia State, pledging to deliver, 60 percent of the total votes cast in Abia to the Governor come 2027.
Their resolve was made public on Friday at the Umuahia Township Stadium, venue for the grand civil reception.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Hon Kingsley Anosike, expressed gratitude to the Governor for transforming Umuahia from what was once seen as a glorified village, into one of the fastest-growing state capitals in Nigeria.
He noted that Governor Otti’s leadership has restored dignity to Abians through visible and impactful governance.
Anosike further assured the Governor of the unwavering support of the Umuahia–Ikwuano people, pledging their commitment to ensuring his return to Government House in 2027.
Also speaking, the Deputy So of the Abia State House of Assembly and member representing Umuahia East State Constituency, Rt Hon Austin Meregini commended the Governor for fostering synergy between the Executive and Legislative arms of government, noting that such collaboration has made governance more effective and responsive to the needs of the people.
In his remarks, a Legal luminary and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Barr Monday Ubani, lauded Gov Otti for bringing joy and renewed hope to Abians. He highlighted key infrastructural projects, including the award for the reconstruction of the Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene road, as evidence of the Governor’s commitment to development without political excuses.
The Son of the first Military Head of State, Ambassador Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi and the State’s representative at the Federal Character Commission, High Chief Victor Ikeji, also praised the administration’s achievements, particularly in education and healthcare, noting that the narrative of governance in Abia has significantly improved.
The speakers collectively described Gov Otti as one of the most impactful Governors in Nigeria today, emphasizing that ongoing projects including plans for a 250-room five-star hotel in Umuahia and the completion of key infrastructure will further transform Umuahia to a befitting capital.
The Governor during his remarks reiterated that governance should be rooted in service rather than self-interest. He assured the people that his administration remains committed to delivering quality projects across all sectors, adding that every project initiated will be completed.
Earlier, the Chairman on the occasion, Archbishop Raphael Opoko in his speech, commended the Governor of Abia State for what he described as far-reaching reforms and visible improvements across key sectors of the state’s economy, particularly in health, education, and infrastructure.
The Cleric acknowledged the Governor’s commitment to revitalizing the healthcare system, highlighting the transformation of the Amachara Medical Centre, formerly known as Methodist Hospital, as well as, the upgrade of the Abia State Specialist Hospital with modern, state-of-the-art equipment. It also noted the ongoing improvements in Primary Health Centres across the state, aimed at meeting international standards.
Archbishop Opoko further praised the administration’s introduction of free education for all Abia children from primary to secondary school levels, describing it as a landmark achievement in the state’s history. It also commended the recruitment of over 5,000 teachers and plans to employ an additional 4,000, noting that the move would significantly strengthen the state’s education sector and enhance capacity building.
According to him, the construction of smart schools in areas such as Ubakala and School Road in Umuahia reflects the government’s commitment to equipping young people with modern learning facilities and opportunities for development.
On infrastructure, he observed that many roads across the state have become motorable, with ongoing projects set to further improve accessibility. It pointed out that Aba has witnessed a major transformation, describing the commercial city as taking on a renewed and attractive outlook.
He highlighted key projects including the rehabilitation of Omenuko Bridge, which it said has eased movement for motorists, as well as, the facelift of major landmarks such as the Secretary to the State Government’s office complex, Michael Okpara Square, and the Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard.
Other projects cited include the renovation of the International Conference Centre Umuahia, the old State Secretariat at Ogurube Layout, and the Michael Okpara Auditorium, all of which have been upgraded to modern standards.
Additionally, the the Methodist Archbishop noted improvements along Library Avenue (Bank Road) leading to Okpara Square and the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, including internal road upgrades within the federal facility.
He said the ongoing developments signal a new era of progress in Abia State, with citizens experiencing improved infrastructure, strengthened institutions, and renewed opportunities for growth and prosperity.
The Archbishop further announced the endorsement of the Governor for a second tenure by the people of Ikwuano/ Umuahia
The event further featured mass defection of members from various political parties in the Labour Party, including the former Federal House member of Ikwuano/Umuahia constituency, Hon Udo Ibeji among others.
