Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has declared that his entry into politics was motivated by the need to address the total collapse of public infrastructure and the resulting frustrations experienced by citizens.

Speaking while commissioning the historic Igwu Bridge, popularly known as Omenuko Bridge—named after the pre-colonial Aro trader Mazi Omenuko—in Abam, Arochukwu LGA, Governor Otti said his administration is committed to improving the economic outlook of Abia State and restoring hope to the populace.

He reiterated that despite the challenges faced by many urban and rural communities across the state, his determination to make Abia a model state remains unwavering.

The governor, who was accompanied by former Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Onyeabor Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd), also commissioned the long-abandoned 30-kilometre Ozu Abam–Ndi Okereke–Okobo–Amuvi–Arochukwu Road, which has now been reconstructed by his administration.

The people of Abam Clan in Arochukwu LGA organized a grand reception for the governor at Abam High School, attended by eminent personalities from the clan and beyond.

In his address titled “At Last, The Jinx Is Broken”, Governor Otti said the commissioning of these projects marks the beginning of a new era of prosperity.

“The newly constructed bridge over Igwu River stands as a testament to the resolute determination of our administration to address decades of neglect and set a new standard in governance—one that empowers communities and fosters prosperity for all,” Otti said.

He added, “The timely delivery of the 30-kilometre road, which traverses several clans in Abam and Arochukwu, demonstrates what can be achieved when leadership aligns with the aspirations of the community.”

Otti described the Abam people as the true heroes of the transformation in the area. “We stepped out of our comfort zones to fight for the soul of this great state. Although risky, our decision was the right one,” he asserted.

The governor also paid tribute to lives lost due to the neglect of the Omenuko Bridge, including the late Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who lost two children at Igwu River more than 40 years ago, and 17 students who perished in 2007 while traveling to an exam center. He extended condolences to other affected families, including Mr. Maxwell Uduma of Ohafia.

During the event, Governor Otti confirmed Dr. Emmanuel Meribeole as the substantive Secretary to the State Government, while announcing the immediate past SSG, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, as President of the Abia State Leadership Academy.

Commissioning the projects, Lt. Gen. Ihejirika praised the governor for delivering critical infrastructure that directly impacts communities. Similarly, Commissioner for Works, Engr. Otumchere Oti, highlighted the significance of opening up rural roads, noting that people previously had to pass through Akwa Ibom State to reach Arochukwu.

Local representatives, including Hon. Ibe Osonwa (Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency) and Hon. Uchenna Okoro (Arochukwu State Constituency), joined Prof. Kalu in commending the governor for his interventions in Arochukwu LGA.

Chief James Umeh, founder of UNUBIKO Foundation and a prominent Abam indigene, expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for restoring the pride of Abam Clan through the road reconstruction and bridge construction. He also pledged community support for Otti’s 2027 political ambitions, noting that locals are prepared to contribute to his re-election campaign.