Aba Carnival: Governor Otti’s Overwhelming Endorsement Sends a Strong Message
Ebere Uzoukwa, PhD
The “Promise Kept Carnival” recently held in Aba, Abia State, was a monumental celebration that showcased the massive support and gratitude of the Enyimba city’s residents for Governor Alex Otti’s administration. Thousands of enthusiastic attendees converged at Umuagbai Secondary School along Port Harcourt Road to commemorate a milestone achievement – the restoration of a road that had lain in disrepair for nearly three decades.
This remarkable turnout highlighted the city’s deep-seated appreciation for the governor’s efforts and served as a testament to the administration’s commitment to fulfilling its campaign promises. Notably, the event was entirely self-sponsored by the organizers, underscoring the trust and confidence that the people of Abia have in Governor Otti’s leadership.
The newly reconstructed Port Harcourt Road is a landmark project executed by Julius Berger, marking the first time a state government in the Southeast engaged the renowned construction company. The road boasts impressive features, including a six-lane carriageway with lay-bys and drainage system on the 5.7km stretch from Ngwa Road to the Enugu-Umuahia-Aba-Port Harcourt Expressway, and a four-lane carriageway with lay-bys and drainage on the 1.1km corridor from Ngwa Road to Azikiwe Road. The road is also equipped with solar-powered street lights.
The reconstructed road is currently driving economic rejuvenation, improving infrastructure, and creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, as well as enhancing the quality of life for residents. The road has already shown significant economic and social impact, revitalizing collapsed businesses and boosting economic activities in the commercial city of Aba.
The carnival was undoubtedly a powerful demonstration of the city’s collective memory and its ability to acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of its leaders. The event sent a clear message to misguided opposition critics who had attempted to incite the public against Governor Otti’s administration by concocting false narratives. Despite these efforts, the crowd’s enthusiasm and support for the governor remained unwavering, underscoring the importance of trust in leadership.
Unfortunately, it is unfortunate to see some opposition elements visibly angry and frustrated because Governor Otti has fixed the road they failed to do after siphoning and diverting several billions of naira by contracting the best road construction company in Nigeria. Their anger amplifies the fact that they were caught and exposed in their corrupt activities. Alas, their blackmail and attacks on Governor Otti will not deter him from serving and providing development to the good and supportive Abians and residents. Governor Otti remains focused on delivering more projects and services to the people, and no amount of propaganda will distract him from his commitment to the welfare of Abians.
Significantly, the success of the “Promise Kept Carnival” has implications for future elections. Given his popularity and the trust he has earned from the people of Abia State, any campaign against Governor Otti in 2027 would be an uphill battle. The governor’s endorsement would be a game-changer in any future electoral contest in Nigeria. Abians are happy that the event highlighted the values of genuine leadership, where people are drawn to a leader they love and respect. Governor Otti’s administration is not just about wielding power but showing compassion, love, and respect for the people.
Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the SSA to the Governor on Public Affairs.
