By Favour Ulebor

As Nigerians commemorate Democracy Day, the Special Adviser to the Abia State Governor on Investment Promotion and Public Private Partnerships, High Chief Jerome Nbaonu Green Amakwe, has said the people of Abia State have every reason to celebrate what he described as a new era of development and responsible governance under Governor Alex Otti.

In a statement signed by him on Saturday, Green Amakwe said Democracy Day represents more than a national celebration for Abians, noting that it symbolizes freedom, renewal, accountability and the emergence of a new Abia driven by service to the people.

According to him, Abia is among the states with the strongest reasons to mark the occasion, considering what he described as decades of unfulfilled promises, poor development and missed opportunities that characterised governance in the state before 2023.

He said the state’s fortunes changed with the election of Governor Alex Otti and his deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, describing their emergence as a turning point that restored hope and ushered in purposeful leadership.

Green Amakwe recalled that despite widespread doubts about the possibility of change, many supporters and stakeholders remained committed to the vision of a better Abia. He said their efforts were motivated by a desire to rebuild the state and improve the lives of its people.

The governor’s aide paid tribute to members of the campaign team that worked towards the administration’s victory. He noted that the late Hon. Nnanna Ngwu served as Chairman of the campaign organisation, while Hon. Acho Obioma was Director General.

He added that he coordinated campaign activities in Abia Central, while Dr. C. Okwuonu led efforts in Abia South. He also acknowledged the contributions of coordinators and stakeholders in Abia North and across the state’s 17 local government areas.

Green Amakwe further recognised several prominent supporters of the movement, including Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, Mike Akpara, retired Navy Captain McDonald Uba, Ishmael Onuoha, Prince Okey Kanu, Ogbonna Okereke, High Chief Victor Ikeji, Mrs. Magdalene Ugoanusi, Uloaku Iheanacho, Dike Nwankwo, Uche Nwosu, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Ottah Kalu, Dr. Nwokocha O. Eze, Ceekay Igara, Fr. Chris Anukuru and retired Col. Ezichi Kalu, among others.

He praised Governor Otti’s leadership style, describing him as disciplined, focused and committed to the development of the state. According to him, the governor’s ability to mobilise citizens around a common vision has translated into visible progress across various sectors.

Reflecting on the significance of Democracy Day, Green Amakwe thanked God for the progress achieved in Abia and paid tribute to individuals whose sacrifices and dedication contributed to the state’s transformation.

He urged residents and supporters of the administration to continue embracing values such as integrity, transparency, discipline and selfless service, saying these principles remain vital to sustaining development in the state.

The aide congratulated Governor Otti, Deputy Governor Emetu, members of the administration, stakeholders, grassroots mobilisers and the people of Abia State on the Democracy Day celebration.

He expressed confidence that the state would continue to record greater achievements and enjoy the benefits of democratic governance in the years ahead.