Abia state Governor, Dr Alex Otti has underscored the importance of effective local government administration in achieving the state’s development agenda, urging citizens to support only candidates who share in his administrations vision during the November 2nd Local Government Council Polls.
Governor Otti who stated this while commissioning the newly rebuilt Aba South Local Government Chairman’s Office and Administrative Block, commended the Mayor, for his outstanding commitment to the timely completion of the project adding that it stands as a testament to his leadership.
The Governor noted that elections for mayoral and councilorship positions would be held across the state’s 17 local governments and 184 wards, stressed the need for selecting the right leaders for continued development.
He called on Abians to actively participate in the forthcoming local government elections to vote their representatives at the grassroots as well as engage with candidates who share their vision for development irrespective of party affiliation.
The Governor reminded voters of the power they wield through their votes, noting that “by supporting and electing quality leaders, they are making a significant contribution to the rebuilding project happening across the state.
“The effective administration of the local government is very important for our holistic development agenda including what we have done today. A standard had been set and we do but want to drop from this standard.
“I will therefore invite you to participate actively in the process by asking questions of the candidates and supporting those who share in our development agenda irrespective of what party they belong.
“We know our people and I’m sure non of us will be in doubt. When you go to the polling centers as to who the right candidate for the relevant positions are, like I’ve always known, Abia people go for the right candidates despite political platform. We must continue to seek out the right people“, Otti said.
The Governor emphasized that the only way to sustain progress in the state is by having quality leaders in authority.
“The only way Commissionings, flagg offs, good beautiful buildings will continue is that we shall continue to have the right people in authority.
“By supporting and voting quality leaders, you are making very significant contribution to the rebuilding project happening in all parts of the state.
“It behooves us to collectively resolve that never again shall we be led especially at the local government by individuals who are only interested in political offices without the responsibility of service to the people“, Otti stated.
The Governor assured that the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC) would receive all necessary the support to ensure a free , fair and credible electoral process.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the Labour Party and emphasized that he remains a dedicated member of the Party.
Contributing, the Speaker, Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa thanked the Governor for assisting in ensuring that the office complex which was destroyed during the ‘end sars’ protest was rebuilt.
He used the opportunity to restate that Abia is still under the Labour Party inspite of the internal party crisis rocking the party, and maintaining that differences in the party would be sorted out.
In his speech, the Mayor of Aba South LGA, Chief Uche Nwogu recalled that Office complex was destroyed following the “End SARS Protest” in 2020 adding that he embarked on the project in line with Governor Otti’s rebuilding agenda.
Chief Nwogu who thanked the Governor for his assistance in achieving the great feat, disclosed that his plan is to make Aba South viable and self sustainable in managing as opposed to depending on federal allocation.
Speaking earlier, an Aba resident and President Aba Sports Club Sir Chris Agbo saluted the commitment of Governor Otti in giving Aba a face lift and appreciated the Mayor of Aba South for the transformation he has carried out in the council headquarters.
The event also featured the commissioning of the first phase of the rebuilt Abia State Emergency Tripod System which integrates Fire Service, Security and Medical emergency provisions by Governor Alex Otti.