Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
Former Speakers of Abia State House of Assembly last weekend, set aside their political leanings and endorsed the performance of the State Governor, Alex Otti, declaring that his nine months in office have been remarkable.
The Speakers, who came together under the ‘Conference of Former Speakers of Abia State House of Assembly’ visited Otti at Nvosi and later joined him on the inspection of ongoing projects in Aba, the commercial hub.
Impressed with the outstanding achievements Otti has posted so far, the former leaders of the state legislature assured the governor of their support to enable him achieve his vision for Abia State.
The former Speakers were elected on the platform of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) but are now in different political camps following constant shifts and defections.
The former Speakers are Mr. Stanley Ohajuruka, Mr. Arua Arunsi, Mr. Agwu U. Agwu, Mr. Christopher Enweremadu, Mr. Martins Azubuike, Mr. Chikwendu Kalu, and Mr. Ude Okochukwu, who was also the immediate-past deputy governor of the state.
However, the immediate past Speaker, Rt. Hon Chinedum Orji, whose presence would have completed the number, was conspicuously absent.
Abia is now controlled by Labour Party, but the former speakers said that what matters now is governance, not political affiliation.
Explaining their mission, Ohajuruka noted that Governor Otti was already making his marks in governance hence “as critical stakeholders in Abia” the former speakers came to offer their advice and support.
He said: “Elections have come and gone and what is expected is governance that is all-encompassing and inclusive. We will offer advice, cooperation and support where needed towards ensuring Abians reap dividends of democracy.”
The immediate past deputy governor, who had served as speaker before crossing over to the executive arm, said that the former speakers were satisfied with Otti’s sterling performance.
He said: “Abia is our own. It belongs to all of us and that is the reason why we are happy with what you are doing. We are here for you in whatever capacity and whatever role we will play.
“We are quite impressed. We have gone out, we have seen things for ourselves; we have seen what you have done.”
Governor Otti welcomed the non-partisan endorsement and expressed gratitude to the former speakers for identifying with him and the work his administration is doing in the state.
He noted that leadership is about service and stewardship, the reason he needed to be close to the people, monitor and keep contractors on their toes to deliver quality jobs.
Otti acknowledged that “the days of electioneering, politics and contests are over” and governance has taken the centre stage, adding that though political platforms differ, “our ideals are not different” as they are centred on the welfare of Abians.
He told the ex-speakers, who had in the past shared the party with him that his coming into office “is really not about anything than to restore the dignity of our people and in doing that also empower them the more.
“Our people do not require too many things from government; for us, it is about returning that environment where people can feel free to do their businesses,” Governor Otti stated.
