The Special Adviser to the Governor of Abia State on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, has defended the decision of Governor Alex Otti to name the newly commissioned Abia Central Bus Terminal after Professor Nnenna Nnannaya Oti, describing the honour as deserved and in line with global democratic traditions.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Ekeoma said criticisms trailing the naming of the facility failed to appreciate the critical role played by Professor Oti during the 2023 governorship election in Abia State.
According to him, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), demonstrated exceptional courage, integrity and commitment to democracy when she resisted pressure and threats while serving as the Returning Officer for the election.
Ekeoma stated that Professor Oti’s refusal to declare what he described as manipulated results from Obingwa Local Government Area prevented a recurrence of electoral malpractice and protected the integrity of the electoral process in the state.
He argued that Professor Oti was not merely an electoral officer carrying out routine responsibilities but an individual who took a principled stand at a critical moment in Abia’s history.
The Governor’s aide recalled that a similar situation occurred during a previous election in the state when an electoral official allegedly succumbed to pressure, noting that Professor Oti’s decision to stand firm in 2023 helped strengthen public confidence in the democratic process.
Ekeoma further maintained that honouring outstanding electoral officials is a globally accepted practice, citing examples of election administrators from the Philippines, South Africa, Nigeria and the United States who have received international awards and recognitions for promoting credible elections and democratic values.
He noted that former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, was among those who received international honours for his contributions to electoral integrity.
Defending Governor Otti’s decision, Ekeoma said naming the bus terminal after Professor Oti was both appropriate and symbolic, as it recognizes courage, honesty and dedication to public service.
He added that the outcome of the 2023 election ushered in changes that have transformed governance in Abia State, including improvements in public service administration, institutional reforms and infrastructural development.
According to him, Professor Oti’s actions contributed significantly to the emergence of a new political era in the state and helped restore public trust in democratic institutions.
Ekeoma described the renowned academic as an “instrument of silent revolution” whose integrity and resilience helped reshape the destiny of Abia State.
He therefore called for Professor Oti to be celebrated not only in Abia but across Nigeria and internationally, stressing that recognising individuals who uphold truth and justice under pressure serves as an encouragement to others entrusted with public responsibilities.
The media aide concluded that the honour bestowed on Professor Oti by the Abia State Government is a reminder that integrity, courage and commitment to duty remain values worthy of recognition and reward in society.
