Otti names bus terminal after electoral officer who confirmed his victory in 2023 poll

Alex Otti, governor of Abia state, has named the new central bus terminal in Umuahia after Nnenna Oti, a professor and former resident electoral commissioner (REC).

In a post on his social media pages, the governor said naming the facility after the university don is a “tribute to all electoral officials, security operatives, party agents, and citizens who resisted intimidation and defended democracy”.

The unveiling of the terminal occurred on Wednesday.

Oti made the headlines in 2023 after she alleged that some politicians attempted to influence her to sway the outcome of the Abia governorship poll.

She shared that she stood by her decision to ensure the will of the people prevailed.

Otti was thereafter declared governor-elect by the electoral umpire after previous attempts proved futile amid manipulation allegations.

‘COURAGEOUS INEC OFFICER’

Describing the project, Otti said the facility is a multimodal transport hub designed to accommodate more than 340 buses at once, powered by sustainable infrastructure and linked to a growing network of electric buses.

“The facility is named in honour of Prof. Nnenna Nnennaya-Oti, the courageous INEC Returning Officer in the 2023 governorship election, whose integrity and patriotism remind us that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary results by simply standing for the truth,” the statement reads.

“With 20 electric buses already in operation and more on the way in the coming weeks, the project signals our bold vision for a modern, safe, and sustainable transport system in Abia.

“The facility is also supported with independent power and water systems to ensure uninterrupted operations.”

The governor implored residents and members of the host community to take ownership of the facility, maintain a clean environment, and guard against vandalism.

“This terminal belongs to you, and its success depends on your care. I also urge all Abians to pay their taxes regularly,” he said.

“Development cannot be sustained without collective responsibility, and every naira contributed helps us deliver the future our people deserve.” (TheCable)