“Otti Swears In Newly Elected LG Chairmen in Abia: What This Means for Local Governance”

Babaatunji Wusu –

Abia State Governor Alex Otti officially swore in 17 Local Government Chairmen on Monday, following the Local Council elections held on November 2. In his address, Otti urged the newly elected officials to prioritize the socio-economic development of their local government areas (LGAs) under a unified vision of “Abia first.”

The chairmen, representing the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) and the Young Progressives Party (YPP), received their Certificates of Return from Professor George Chima, Chairman of the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC), at the commission’s headquarters in Umuahia.

In his speech, titled “Development and A New Philosophy of Leadership,” Otti called for urgent attention to critical issues facing Abia communities, including access to clean water, healthcare, education, road maintenance, and security. He challenged the chairmen to demonstrate measurable improvements in the lives of residents within six months, particularly focusing on vulnerable groups such as women and youth.

Among those sworn in were Timothy Iheke (Aba North), Anyanwu Obilor (Aba South), Chinedu Ekeke (Isuikwuato), and Maxwell Nwadike (Obingwa). Chinedu Ekeke, the Mayor of Isuikwuato, affirmed the group’s commitment to advancing Governor Otti’s vision, while Nnadozie Nwaogwugwu, Mayor of Isialangwa South, emphasized plans to prioritize health, agriculture, infrastructure, and youth empowerment in his LGA.

ABSIEC Chairman Professor Chima commended the new chairmen and encouraged them to align their efforts with the governor’s goals to ensure effective governance and representation across Abia State.