The President of the Cooperative Motor Union in Abia State, Mr. Chukwuma Azode, popularly known as China, has warned that any opposition party or politician planning to challenge Governor Alex Otti in the 2027 governorship election is taking a “very big risk.”
Azode who made the statement in Aba during a massive Two-Million Man March organised by various transport unions in Abia State, said the March is to express support for Governor Otti’s road infrastructure projects and overall performance in office.
Speaking to journalists at the rally, the union leader said Governor Otti has demonstrated strong leadership and tangible achievements within two years in office, particularly in the area of road development, and enjoys the overwhelming support of transport operators and residents alike.
“From what we are seeing, I don’t think any sensible person should involve himself in anything concerning elections, because from what we are seeing, His Excellency is supposed to enjoy his eight years,” Azode stated.
He continued, “So, for now, any opposition that is coming out is taking a very big risk, because we, Abians, are in support of His Excellency, Dr Alex Otti for now, and no other person. And all the motor unions in Abia State are also endorsing His Excellency for 2027. That’s part of our gathering here today.”
Azode stressed that the event was not political but a demonstration of appreciation for the governor’s good work, which has positively affected transporters and road users across the state.
“This gathering, this Million March is not political. It’s non-political, and I believe that there are a lot of people that love His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, that are here, and most of them are from different political backgrounds,” he said. “We are here to show solidarity to His Excellency and celebrate all his good works in Abia State.”
He particularly pointed to Governor Otti’s commitment to developing Aba, the state’s commercial centre, as a major factor behind the union’s open show of support.
Also speaking at the event, the State Chairman of the Abia State Tricycle Operators Union (ASTOPU), Comrade Victor Azubuike, said the rally was organised to thank Governor Otti for the smooth movement and improved road networks, especially in Aba.
He noted that transporters in Aba have been the greatest beneficiaries of the present administration’s infrastructural development and expressed gratitude for the governor’s leadership.
In his remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation, Dr. Obioma Nwaogbe, said transport operators had every reason to celebrate the governor’s achievements, especially with the number of roads constructed in both urban and rural areas.
“All those roads being constructed are for transportation use. The people that use the roads most are the transporters, and these roads make it seamless for all the transport operators and commuters,” he said.
He added that the choice of Aba for the rally was intentional, as it is the economic hub of the eastern zone and has witnessed the most infrastructural interventions under Governor Otti’s administration.
The rally, which took off from Osisioma Junction and moved through Aba-Owerri Road to Asa Road, saw a colourful procession of jubilant residents and transport workers who flooded the streets of Aba in what they described as a show of love and appreciation for the governor’s development strides.