Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has described Governor Alex Otti as a rare and exemplary leader, urging the people of Abia State to make the most of his leadership while it lasts.
Speaking during the commissioning of the 45-kilometre Umuahia–Uzuakoli–Akara–Alayi–Abiriba Road, the former President praised Otti’s performance, likening him to a “miracle worker.”
“Leaders don’t flock,” Obasanjo said. “When you get a good leader, like you have in Dr. Alex Otti, make good use of him. I had to run back from London three days ago so that I could come. Because the governor’s order for me must be obeyed.”
The event, held at Unity Evangelical Church opposite Uzuakoli Central Market, marked the official commissioning of one of the flagship road projects under the Otti administration.
The road, which cuts across several communities, was reconstructed to improve rural-urban connectivity, ease movement, and support local economic development.
Recalling his previous experience with the road, Obasanjo described it as “hellish,” but lauded the transformation achieved under the current government.
“When I was told that the road would now take me from Umuahia to Abiriba in 45 minutes, I said this man must be a miracle worker.”
He noted that in just 22 months in office, the governor had completed the section 1 and 2 of the road, with promises to finish an additional section 3 before the end of his first term.
Obasanjo thereafter, urged the people of Abia State to support Governor Otti for continued progress.
“Let us encourage him. I will continue to stand behind him. If he forgets to invite me to the next commissioning, remind him,” he joked.
Governor Otti, in his address, said the project represents more than just improved transportation noting that it is part of a broader agenda to modernise infrastructure, stimulate economic activity, and make rural communities more livable.
“Today’s commissioning ceremony is an eloquent testament to our resolve to do things differently. This administration has zero tolerance for shoddy jobs or the kickback culture that enables them,” he said.
The governor stressed that the road would reduce travel time, improve safety, lower transport costs, and encourage agricultural productivity by easing the movement of farm produce from remote areas to urban markets.
He also emphasised that the project was executed without borrowing funds, highlighting prudent management of public resources and support from taxpayers and private partners.
“Individuals and families are relocating to Abia in record numbers, owing to steady improvements ininfrastructure, security, and a business-friendly hit environment,” he said.
To honour a distinguished son of Abia State, Otti announced that the newly completed road will be named after the late Professor Joe Iruikwu, describing him as a man who made the state proud on national and global platforms.
Speaking during an Interview with the Whistler, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu praised the governor for making his work easier. He noted that the road is a leway for motorists to swiftly transport passengers from one place to the other and also enable the effective distribution of farm produce by marketers.
The President of the Cooperative Motor Union, Chukwuma Azode, said the good roads have helped reduce how often his members’ vehicles get damaged. He added that they are being taught how to use the roads properly to keep them in good condition.
“More importantly, their speed limit is 90, they don’t apply more than 90. His Excellency has done marvelously well, and this is what we call dividends of Democracy,” he said.
Abia State Laison Officer, Iheanyichukwu Chinasa, said that coming home used to be a nightmare that most had to leave their homes and move to Umuahia.
“Uzuakoli is gate way to the north so the road is a very important one. It connects all of us. We pray for otti to continue doing what he is doing,” said Chinasa.
The Whistler reports that the event drew Prominent figures like the senator representing Abia South senatorial district, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Dr. Eke Agbai, and Hon. Simon Oshi, among others including traditional rulers, political leaders, community groups, youth organisations, and development partners.
