Residents from Abia North Senatorial District, Thursday presented their challenges and needs to Abia State governor, Alex Otti during a town hall meeting organized as part of the event to mark his one year in office.
This was even as he has offered himself and his aides to prove after service.
The Abians who spoke for their local governments include Mazi Oji Okorie (Arochukwu), Mrs. B. U. Ahia (Isuikwuato), Mrs. Victoria Chinaza (Umunneochi), Mrs. Stella Ezinne Okorie (Bende) and Elder Kalu Ukpai Kalu (Ohafia), as well as National Youth Service Corps members from Ohafia LGA.
The challenges tabled for the governor include access and rural roads, electrification, pipe-borne water, empowerment and appointments among others, while the NYSC members complained of non-payment of allowances by schools, non-payment of stipends by the council, absence of accommodation and absence of corpers’ lodge.
Responding to these demands at the event held at Ohafia LGA mini stadium, the state governor, Alex Otti said, “I have noticed that the problems are on roads. We have been doing that and will continue doing it,” and informed the NYSC members that in the next 24 hours, he will address their problems through the Ohafia LGA Mayor, David Ogba Onuoha.
He said, “The journey has just started and cannot start. We have every community, ward and local government in mind”, adding that he would start visitation with every LGA and then down to the community to feel their pulse and ascertain how his government has performed in the past twelve months.
“This is a government that has come to change things. In the past, people close to the government used to share money. Unfortunately, things have changed. This is not a government that shares money, but a government that works for the people. We will use the money to work for the people. What we have done is that every money is used to work for the people.”
Otti said some people are worried about the forensic audit he did, stating that he will submit himself to work for the people for the next seven years and urged anyone that will take over from him to audit him. He called on his appointees to be prepared to be probed too, stating, “Things have changed for Abians and never again shall we return to Egypt”.
In his speech, the Deputy Governor, Engr Ikechukwu Emetu said the town hall meeting was for the development of Abia North senatorial zone and a family discussion, stating it was there that constituents would air their opinion about governance and to present their challenges.
Earlier on behalf of the five Mayors of Abia North representing Arochukwu, Ohafia, Bende, Isukwuato, and Umunochi, the Mayor of Ohafia LGA, David Ogba Onuoha noted, “Your visit today marks a historic moment for Abia North. It is not only your first visit to engage with us at the grassroots since your well-deserved election victory but also a powerful demonstration of your dedication to inclusive and participatory governance.
“Your journey to meet with us, the people of Abia North, speaks volumes about your commitment to understanding and addressing the unique challenges and aspirations of our communities. This grassroots engagement reinforces our confidence in your leadership and your vision for a more connected and prosperous Abia State.
“Since assuming office, you have embarked on transformative initiatives that have already begun to uplift our state. Your efforts in enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic development are commendable and are having a positive impact on the lives of our people. We deeply appreciate your proactive approach and the tangible progress we are witnessing under your administration.
The Town Hall meeting, he said “exemplifies your belief in the power of dialogue and collaboration. By listening to our voices, concerns, and ideas, you are fostering a governance model that is truly for the people and by the people. This inclusivity not only strengthens our communities but also sets a precedent for a more engaged and responsive government.
“We understand the challenges that come with leadership, especially in times of Socio-economic complexities. However, we stand united and ready to support your vision and initiatives. Together, we are confident that we can overcome any obstacles and achieve unprecedented growth and development for Abia North and the entire state.”
The gathering, he said “It is a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to progress, unity, and prosperity. Thank you, for your unwavering dedication to our well-being and for taking the time to connect with us at the grassroots level.”
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