Two years ago, a new chapter opened in the history of Abia State. Dr. Alex Otti took office as Governor, and the air was thick with expectations, anxiety, and hope. Like many people, I was curious — would this administration be any different?
As someone deeply involved in grassroots advocacy and community development, I was ready to call things out if necessary. But what I’ve seen over the past two years has made one thing very clear: Governor Otti came to work.
From road projects to urban renewal, from waste management in Aba to the revitalization of government infrastructure in Umuahia — Abia is visibly changing.
The difference is not in speeches; it’s on the streets, in the systems, and in the faces of everyday people who can now say, “something is happening.”
In Aba, I see a city that’s cleaner than it has ever been. In Umuahia, I see a capital that’s slowly being restructured for functionality. Across several LGAs — from Bende to Isuikwuato, Osisioma to Ugwunagbo — the sound of progress is loud and consistent. These are not media fabrications. The change is real.
But as we celebrate this progress, I have to speak for my people in Umuahia North, especially Ohuhu. Because while many areas are receiving attention, the Ohuhu Ring Road (formerly Okpara Road) remains in total disrepair due to the condition of The Eme River.
This route is the safest and most secure road leading directly to the newly opened Federal College of Education, Ofeme. But with the bridge down, our people — especially students — are being forced to use the busy Umuahia–Enugu Expressway, which poses a major safety risk. These are young Abians/Nigerians we’re talking about — future teachers, nation builders. Forcing them onto a high-speed expressway daily is not just inconvenient; it’s dangerous.
Fixing the Eme Bridge and rehabilitating the Ohuhu Ring Road would completely change access for thousands of people. It would reconnect major economic and social arteries of the area, including key markets like:
- Orie Umuagu
- Eke Ude
- Afor Umuda
These markets serve not just Ohuhu but also surrounding communities. With the bridge gone, access is difficult, trade is shrinking, and economic activity is suffering.
Your Excellency, I know no administration can fix everything overnight, and I recognize the tremendous progress your government has already made across the state. But I’m pleading with you — as a son of the soil and as a grassroots advocate — to prioritize this strategic route.
The people of Ohuhu are not just asking for a bridge. We are asking for restored access, safer travel, revived trade, and secured education. This is a plea for inclusion in the development we’re seeing across Abia.
Also, while we fix the roads and bridges, let’s not forget our youth. We need innovation hubs, digital skill programs, agricultural empowerment — platforms that can unlock the raw talent and energy of young Abians. Infrastructure is great, but human capital is greater.
So yes, I celebrate two years of Dr. Alex Otti’s leadership with pride. But I also speak up with hope — hope that the next phase of this journey will touch every community, including mine.
May your leadership continue to bring light to every corner of Abia State.
✍️
– Comrade Udegbu Micheal O. (OnlineChiefPriest)
Community Development Advocate and Leader Of Ohuhu United People’s Forum,
Umuahia North Abia State