A group under the aegis of United Abia Artistes and Patriots (UAAP) has called on the opposition in the state to contribute positively to the socio-political development of Abia by offering constructive solutions along with their criticisms of the Governor Alex Otti administration, rather than resorting to destructive opposition.
Speaking at a media briefing in Umuahia on Friday, the President of the Forum, Ambassador Osita Offor, acknowledged that the opposition is fulfilling its democratic role but criticized it for doing so in a “misguided” manner.
He said; “As an organization, we urge the opposition to offer solutions when they criticize.
“They shouldn’t merely sit in judgement; they should also present alternative solutions, policies and ideologies where they believe the administration is falling short.
“This approach also known as Alternative Proposition, allows the public to access their capacity for the future elections and can also offer valuable ideas that may help the current adminstration course-correct where necessary.
“If the opposition’s goal is the state’s progress, then Alternative Proposition is the way to go”.
Amb Offor who called on the opposition in the state to refrain from “destructive opposition,” emphasized that such approach is outdated and encouraged them to embrace constructive opposition as the way forward.
“The pull him down mentality currently exhibited by the opposition must change.
“It is vital for them to recognize that Abia State belongs to all of us, and the state’s progress or failure doesn’t rest solely with the current administration. It is a collective responsibility.
“We must all contribute positively to ensure the States advancement“, Amb Offor stated.
He advised Abians not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of distraction but rather support the present administration to ensure greater dividends of democracy for the people.
The Forum used the opportunity to pass a vote of confidence on Governor Alex Otti’s 14-month administration, commending the significant achievements made across various sectors of the state’s economy.
Amb Offor remarked that Governor Otti’s administration has proven that leadership is not rocket science, emphasizing that the current government has based its activities on effective visualization, planning, implementation, and monitoring as the core pillars of progress.
He highlighted that Governor Otti has effectively transformed nearly every part of the state into a construction site which is evident in the ongoing reconstruction of Port Harcourt Road in Aba by Julius Berger, as well as the development of Ngwa, Omuma, and several other roads in the state.
The Forum also expressed satisfaction with Governor Otti’s efforts to modernize Umuahia, the state capital with the expansion and commissioning of the former Ossah-Abia Tower Road, now known as Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard, along with the reconstruction of the Umuahia-Uzuakoli-Isuikwuato-Abiriba Road, alongside numerous roads under construction in the state.
