Abia APC criticises Governor Alex Otti over naming of Umuahia Central Bus Terminal after Prof. Nnenna Otti, calling it inappropriate
The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised Governor Alex Otti over the naming of the newly commissioned Umuahia Central Bus Terminal after Professor Nnenna Otti.
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The Abia APC Umuahia bus terminal controversy emerged on Wednesday after the party described the governor’s decision as suspicious and capable of undermining public confidence in the electoral process.
Prof. Nnenna Otti served as Returning Officer during the 2023 governorship election in Abia State, where Governor Alex Otti was declared winner.
In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Uche Aguoru, the APC questioned the ethics behind honouring an electoral official who supervised the election outcome.
The party argued that returning officers are appointed and paid by the Independent National Electoral Commission and should not be publicly celebrated by beneficiaries of elections they oversee.
It also questioned why similar honours had not been extended to electoral officials in other states across the country.
The APC further alleged that the decision could create the impression of a personal relationship between the governor and the former returning officer, raising concerns about public perception.
The party warned that the development could damage trust in the credibility of past elections and set a dangerous precedent.
It also called on Prof. Nnenna Otti to reject the honour, saying acceptance could deepen public suspicion.
The opposition party threatened to petition the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission if the decision is not reviewed.
According to the APC, the petition would seek an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the naming of the terminal and related concerns raised during the 2023 election.
The party maintained that Abia State has several notable figures whose contributions to development, governance, and public service make them more suitable for such recognition.
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It urged Governor Otti to reconsider the decision in the interest of public trust and institutional integrity.
