Otti Defends Naming of Umuahia Bus Terminal After Prof. Nnenna Oti
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has defended his decision to name the newly commissioned Umuahia Bus Terminal after Prof. Nnenna Oti, insisting that the honour was well deserved and would not be reversed despite criticisms from some quarters.
The governor maintained that Prof. Oti earned the recognition through her courage, integrity, and commitment to due process during the 2023 governorship election in Abia State.
Responding to critics of the decision, Otti said individuals who disagree with the naming of the facility are free to build their own projects and name them after whoever they choose.
According to him, honouring people who demonstrate integrity and stand for what is right is necessary to encourage others entrusted with public responsibilities to act in the interest of society.
“We have no response for those criticizing our decision to name the newly commissioned terminal after Prof. Nnenna Oti. Those who are against it should wait for their turn.
When they build their own bus terminal, they can name it after whoever they choose, even Anini the robber. Of course, Prof. Nnenna Oti did her job, but how many people in similar positions have had the courage to do theirs?”
His remarks quickly sparked conversations on social media, with supporters and critics sharing differing views on the recognition given to the academic.
The naming of the transport terminal has generated debate among political stakeholders, with some questioning the decision to immortalise the academic. However, supporters of the governor argue that Prof. Oti played a significant role in ensuring the credibility of the 2023 electoral process in the state.
Governor Otti reiterated that the recognition was not politically motivated but intended to celebrate exemplary service, courage, and dedication to democratic values.
The Umuahia Bus Terminal is one of the major transport infrastructure projects recently delivered by the Abia State Government as part of efforts to modernise the state’s transportation system and improve urban mobility.
