Despite growing opposition from a coalition of former governors and their loyalists, political observers believe Governor Alex Otti’s bid for a second term in Abia State may be difficult to stop, citing his strong record of performance in less than three years in office.
While no administration is without shortcomings, Otti’s achievements are tangible and highly visible, making them hard to dismiss with political propaganda. Before 2023 Abia had suffered years of decay stagnation and maladministration. Since Otti took office, the state has witnessed renewed confidence, restored hope, and significant reforms across key sectors of the economy.
Key Milestones Strengthening Otti’s 2nd Term Prospects
Port Harcourt Road, Aba
The 65km road linking Aba’s industrial hub to the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway has been fully rehabilitated with street lights installed. The project handled by Julius Berger has improved business activities and daily commutes, earning public praise.
Ossah Road Expansion, Umuahia
Expanded into a six-lane highway with full compensation paid to affected property owners before construction, Ossah Road now serves as a modern entry point to Umuahia all the way to Onuimo bridge on the Imo State border.
Omenuko Bridge, Abam
The colonial-era bridge over Nmuri River, long a safety hazard, has been replaced with a modern structure that also serves as a tourist attraction.
Abam–Arochukwu Road
Rehabilitation of the 30km Abam–Ndi Okereke Road has made Arochukwu more accessible, reducing travel time from Umuahia to under an hour.
Umuahia–Uzuakoli–Abiriba–Ohafia Road
This 60km arterial road connecting Abia North to the state capital has been fully reconstructed and illuminated, boosting mobility and economic activity.
Umuahia Central Motor Park & Transport Reform
The nearly completed Central Bus Terminal and the introduction of electric buses aim to decongest the city centre and modernize urban transport.
Health, Education and Urban Renewal
Reforms include the revival of Abia State University Teaching Hospital upgrades at Abia Specialist Hospital and expansion of Amachara General Hospital. Over 200 primary healthcare centres have been retrofitted. Tertiary institutions and public schools are seeing infrastructural improvements alongside free education up to JSS3 and employment of thousands of teachers. Umuahia now features streetlights traffic systems and new government structures under construction.
Workers, Environment and Public Trust
Regular payment of salaries and pensions has strengthened loyalty among workers and pensioners. Environmental sanitation has improved drastically, making Abia one of the cleanest states within two years.
These visible achievements give Governor Otti a strong advantage in his second term bid. While political opposition exists, many supporters and neutral observers view the governor’s performance as a compelling reason for re-election. Nevertheless Nigerian politics remains unpredictable and vigilance will be essential until the election is concluded.
Leave a comment