Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has called on the Abure-led faction of the Labour Party to “give peace a chance”. This appeal comes after the Supreme Court judgment that sacked the faction led by Barr. Julius Abure. The Governor made this statement while inaugurating the new leadership of Abia Arise, a grassroots support structure for his administration.
The new leadership, headed by Mazi Nkem Okoro as State Chairman, Mrs. Sophia Chidinma Ikpeama as Vice Chairman, and Dr. Sylvester Ibeneme as Secretary, was tasked with engaging communities, gathering feedback, and promoting good governance. Governor Otti emphasized the importance of teamwork and warned against internal conflicts to maintain the organization’s purpose, which is tailored towards Abia State’s development.
The Governor noted that the Labour Party is bigger than any individual member and that the triumph of evil over good is only for a moment. He expressed gratitude to God for the Supreme Court’s judgment, which he believed was a victory for the party. Governor Otti urged those who may feel aggrieved to give peace a chance, except if their intention is to destroy the party.
Governor Otti charged the new leaders to be committed to delivering on their mandate and to prioritize activities that would give the structure visibility in all Local Government Areas. He assured them that the Board of Trustees of Abia Arise would provide the necessary support to assist the organization in succeeding.
The Governor concluded by emphasizing the need to sustain and consolidate on the gains made in the last 22 months in office. He noted that Abia Arise was instrumental to his team’s migration to the Labour Party and contributed immensely to the campaign and electoral victory of 2023. With the new leadership in place, Governor Otti is confident that Abia Arise will continue to play a crucial role in promoting good governance and development in Abia State.
The Chairman of Abia Arise, Mazi Nkem Okoro, expressed his profound gratitude to the Governor and his leadership style, which has positively impacted the people. He commended the Governor for selecting men of competence and capacity to drive his vision in government. Mazi Okoro promised to serve as the backbone of the Governor’s political engagements and ensure that the Governor succeeds in the State.
The inauguration of the new leadership was witnessed by senior government appointees, including the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu. The Governor explained that the decision to appoint new leaders was to inject new blood into the organization and continually engage the people to promote good governance in the State.
