Otti launches grassroots engagement tour in Abia

By Peter Okore, Umuahia

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has commenced a statewide grassroots visitation aimed at assessing the impact of his administration’s policies and programmes on communities.

The exercise began at Agburuke Community Primary School in Isialangwa North Local Government Area on Saturday, May 2, 2026, under the government’s community engagement initiative.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Caleb Ajagba, the governor said the visits are designed to create direct interaction with residents and strengthen people-centred governance.

“Our administration has redefined governance in Abia State through a holistic vision and inclusive policies. What we are doing now is to visit communities, engage with them, and evaluate how these policies are impacting their daily lives,” he said.

He noted that the initiative would enable the government to move beyond assumptions and obtain direct feedback from residents. According to him, early responses from the communities indicate visible improvements and ongoing development projects.

“It is gratifying to hear directly from the people. Their responses are genuine and heartfelt. They have clearly identified projects and confirmed that governance has reached the grassroots,” he added.

The governor highlighted ongoing projects in the area, including road construction, and assured residents that all projects initiated by the administration would be completed on schedule.

He also urged residents to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the upcoming registration exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission, scheduled to run from May 4 to August.

“While it is commendable that people are expressing support, it is important they are fully empowered to exercise their civic rights,” he said.

Earlier, community leaders, including Jesse Odu, Oji Ikechukwu, and Ngozi Israel, commended the administration’s developmental efforts, describing them as visible and impactful.

They expressed support for the governor and pledged continued participation in civic processes, including voter registration and National Identification Number (NIN) enrolment.

The governor’s representative later inspected dilapidated buildings at Agburuke Community Primary School, which the state government has earmarked for reconstruction.