The Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, on Wednesday inaugurated the newly completed Umuahia Central Bus Terminal, a multimodal transport facility designed to improve urban transportation in the state capital.
During the inauguration, Mr Otti announced that the terminal would be named after Nnenna Nnannaya-Oti, the first female Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Owerri, in recognition of her role as the Independent National Electoral Commission returning officer during the 2023 Abia governorship election.
According to the governor, the honour was in appreciation of her “courage, integrity and commitment to truth” during the election process.
“This terminal has been named after Professor Nnenna Nnannaya-Oti, the courageous INEC returning officer who demonstrated unflinching integrity in the discharge of her duties during a high-stakes election assignment here in Abia,” Mr Otti said.
Otti praises integrity during 2023 election
The governor stated that the recognition extends beyond Prof. Nnannaya-Oti and symbolises all individuals who resisted pressure and intimidation during the electoral process.
“In 2023, through her courageous disposition of standing firmly by the truth… she reminded us that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary results by simply saying no,” he stated.
Mr Otti added that the honour also acknowledged the contributions of electoral officials, security agencies, and citizens who upheld the integrity of the election.
“So she’s just a representative of all of you—INEC staff who never bent, party officials who didn’t give in, security agencies… people who said no to intimidation.”
New transport hub to handle over 340 buses
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony themed “Raising The Bar,” the governor described the terminal as part of his administration’s broader urban transport reform programme.
He explained that the facility was designed to accommodate more than 340 buses and improve accessibility, safety, and efficiency in transportation within Umuahia.
“The days of playing small is over. We shall no longer confine ourselves to the margins,” Mr Otti said.
The governor also disclosed that the transport system would be supported by electric buses, with 20 already operational while additional units are expected in phases.
“Services will keep improving as more buses are delivered… and you can tell with accuracy when a particular bus will arrive and depart.”
Appeal against vandalism
Mr Otti urged residents to protect the facility and support government efforts by maintaining cleanliness, orderliness, and tax compliance.
He warned against vandalism and indiscriminate waste disposal, stressing that violators would face sanctions.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Transport, Chimezie Ukegbu, described the terminal as a major milestone in the state’s transport reform agenda, saying it would reduce congestion, improve safety, and stimulate economic activity.
Prof. Nnannaya-Oti reacts
In her remarks, Prof. Nnannaya-Oti said she merely acted according to her conscience during the 2023 election.
“I simply did what I’ve done all my life—to do the right thing… the mandate of the people must stand,” she stated.
The event also featured a minute of silence in honour of the late former Commissioner for Transport, Sonny Onwuma.
Discover more from VOICE OF THE PEOPLE
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
