The Abia State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has passed a vote of confidence on Governor Alex Otti, commending his administration for what it described as deliberate efforts to improve governance and the welfare of citizens.
Addressing Journalists at the State Secretariat on Thursday in Umuahia, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization said its decision followed a careful assessment of developments in the state over the past three years, noting that the government has recorded significant progress across key sectors, including healthcare, education, infrastructure, and the civil service.
The group through its State Publicity Secretary, Hon Godwin Adindu, said that Governor Otti’s leadership has brought about tremendous transformation, highlighting reforms that have enhanced service delivery and expanded opportunities for residents.
It particularly praised the ongoing infrastructural renewal in Aba, describing the commercial hub as central to Igbo identity and economic life.
According to Ohanaeze, the Governor’s interventions in Aba have restored confidence and positioned the city as a symbol of Igbo resilience, innovation, and enterprise.
The organization also applauded the restructuring of the civil service, pointing the regular and timely payment of salaries and pensions as major relief for workers and retirees.
It added that the administration has created a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive, boosting economic activities in the state.
“You all know that Aba, Enyimba City, is a cardinal city for Ndigbo. It is a city that is central to the life of Ndigbo. Almost every Igbo family has some root or connection to Aba. So the Governor’s massive infrastructural renewal of Aba has gained the admiration and commendation of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, such that Governor Otti is today the pride of Ndigbo as he represents the Igbo spirit of innovation, industry, resilence and entrepreneurship”.
In the area of culture, Ohanaeze commended the establishment of the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, as well as, policies aimed at promoting Igbo heritage, including making Igbo language compulsory in secondary schools and encouraging the use of traditional attire among government officials and workers, adding that such initiatives reflect a strong commitment to preserving Igbo identity while advancing socio-economic development.
“It is in the light of these intentional efforts to reposition Abia State and the identity of Ndigbo that Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Abia state chapter is passing a vote of confidence on Governor Otti. This serves as a motivation for him to continue to render people- centric services to the state.
“In the same spirit, Ohanaeze Ndigbo will continue to recognize our outstanding leaders and illustrous Igbo sons and daughters who are carving distinctive niche in their areas of endeavour and particularly in promoting and defending the Igbo cause as a major tribe in the Nigerian federation”, it added
The organization further expressed optimism that the commendation would encourage the Governor to sustain people-oriented policies and further reposition Abia State.
Ohanaeze also disclosed its commitment to recognizing and supporting outstanding Igbo leaders and individuals contributing to the advancement of the Igbo nation within Nigeria and beyond.
The State Publicity Secretary, Hon Godwin Adindu, urged opposition parties in the state to adopt constructive criticism in their engagements, stressing that while opposition remains vital to democracy, it should not be driven by bitterness or hostility.
He noted that opposition critiques play a key role in shaping governance, describing them as an essential component of a thriving democratic system.
“Democracy cannot thrive without an alternative voice. While we project our efforts, the opposition is expected to scrutinize them. However, what we are witnessing in Abia today is unnecessary hostility. The Governor remains open to constructive ideas”, he said.
Adindu further decried the misuse of social media, lamenting that it has become a platform for propaganda and unwarranted attacks aimed at discrediting the government. He emphasized that such actions are misleading and counterproductive, urging critics to channel their voices toward meaningful contributions that can positively influence governance.
He also stressed the importance of safeguarding the state’s ancestral heritage, particularly as the nation approaches another election cycle. According to him, preserving cultural identity should take precedence over political interests.
Adindu explained that the press briefing was organized to strengthen ties with journalists and update them on the group’s activities. He called on the media to collaborate with the Igbo socio-cultural organization in promoting and preserving the culture and identity of the people.
In his vote of thanks, the Assistant Publicity Secretary, Chief Obinna Ibe, also appealed for media partnership, noting that the group’s mission to defend and promote the Igbo heritage cannot be achieved without the support of the press.
