Sowore’s ‘Naked Dance’ in Aba: A Reappraisal

Jones Ike

On March 17, 2026, controversial activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, visited Aba, the commercial hub of Eastern Nigeria. He claimed his mission was to advocate for the release of detained Biafran separatist leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

However, developments surrounding that visit—particularly his remarks during and afterward—suggest that the trip may have carried a different motive. Rather than a focused advocacy effort, it appeared aimed at undermining the growing public approval and performance of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti.

Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Otti has overseen what many observers describe as a dramatic transformation of Abia State—from a region once labeled among the least developed in Southern Nigeria to one of the fastest-improving states in the country. This shift has earned the popular tag, “The Abia Miracle.”

To better understand the controversy surrounding Sowore’s visit, context is essential. First, Nnamdi Kanu remains in federal custody, and any decision regarding his release lies largely with the federal government—potentially through presidential intervention. Logically, any meaningful advocacy campaign would be directed toward political power centers such as Abuja or Lagos, not a marketplace in Aba. This raises an obvious question: what role do traders at Ariaria Market play in such a campaign? Realistically, none.

Reports also indicate that Sowore spent less than an hour at Ariaria. There is little evidence to suggest he had visited Abia prior to the current administration. Had he done so, he would have witnessed the severe infrastructural decay that once defined the state—and would now be able to contrast it with the ongoing transformation under Governor Otti.

Even the road leading into Ariaria Market, which Sowore used, has undergone visible improvement. The cleaner environment he acknowledged today sharply contrasts with the past, when the area was plagued by filth and neglect. The long-standing flooding issue known as “Ofe Obara,” which once crippled the Ariaria axis, has now been effectively addressed—something previous administrations failed to achieve.

This renewal extends beyond Aba, reflecting a broader statewide shift.

Before the current administration, Abia struggled across key sectors. Infrastructure was dilapidated, roads were notoriously poor, and public services were largely ineffective. Some areas were even under the control of criminal elements. Today, the narrative has significantly changed. Abia is now considered one of the safer states in Nigeria, with crime rates steadily declining since May 2023—thanks in part to the Operation Crush security initiative.

In infrastructure, over 400 roads have reportedly been reconstructed within two years. These roads are notable for their durability, proper drainage systems, and solar-powered street lighting. Many have been completed within tight timelines, often under one year. A striking feature of these projects is the use of direct labour—engaging local engineers and technicians rather than external contractors.

A similar approach has been applied in public housing, with the renovation of key government structures such as the State Secretariat, Commissioners’ Quarters, and the Dr. Michael Okpara Auditorium. The establishment of the Greater Aba Development Authority and the Greater Ohafia Development Authority has further accelerated development efforts in both urban and rural areas.

Education has also seen significant attention. Upon assuming office, Governor Otti declared a state of emergency in the sector, leading to increased funding—reportedly around 20 percent of the state budget. Lost accreditations in tertiary institutions have been restored, and infrastructure development is ongoing. At the basic level, the recruitment of 5,000 teachers through a merit-based process has strengthened the system, even if such progress may not be immediately visible during a brief visit.

Workers’ welfare has improved, with salary arrears cleared and consistent payment now ensured by the 28th of each month—reflecting a renewed commitment to governance.

In healthcare, the administration has undertaken large-scale upgrades across all levels, alongside the recruitment of over 700 health professionals. More than 200 health centers have been rehabilitated under “Project Ekwueme.” The state also won the 2025 Nigeria Governors’ Forum Primary Healthcare Leadership Challenge in the South East Zone, securing a $500,000 prize. Additionally, plans for a billion-dollar medical village, in collaboration with foreign partners, aim to reduce medical tourism from the region has been perfected and work has since commenced on the site.

Beyond infrastructure, governance reforms have been central to the administration’s approach. These include merit-based recruitment, fiscal discipline, transparent procurement processes, and the restructuring of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies for greater efficiency. A culture of accountability and service delivery is gradually being entrenched.

Against this backdrop, Sowore’s criticisms appear largely superficial—based on fleeting observations rather than a deep understanding of systemic reforms. His remarks, lacking clear evidence or objectivity, resemble what can metaphorically be described as a “naked dance” in Aba—an act more dramatic than substantive.

The reality remains that Governor Otti has laid the groundwork for a more structured and effective governance system in Abia State. The visible changes—often described as the emergence of a “New Abia”—are only the beginning of what many believe will be a sustained trajectory of development.

·         Ike, wrote in from Umuahia, via Jonesike556@gmail.com