On Tuesday, Abia State Governor Alex Otti praised Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for successfully completing the 10.98-kilometer Aleto-Ogale-Ebubu-Eteo Road in the Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
During the road’s inauguration, Otti commended Fubara for remembering to implement a road project in the Eleme community, a place where Fubara once lived. The road, also known as Old Bori Road, was awarded to the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation on August 14, 2023, with a contract value of N6.7 billion.
In his speech, Otti emphasized the importance of leadership focused on service, cautioning leaders against pursuing personal interests over the needs of the people. He stated, “Leadership is about service. When leadership deviates from serving the people and focuses on serving personal or select interests, it is misguided. Service should be for the majority, not a few.”
Otti further remarked, “Power belongs to God. No human can claim the ability to give power unless they can give life. Taking life is possible, but giving it is not.”
Highlighting his views on governance, Otti commended Fubara’s preparedness and focus, assuring the people of Rivers State that the current progress is just the beginning. “Governor Fubara is committed, and no distraction will deter him from improving the welfare of the people. The achievements you see now are just the start; greater developments are on the horizon.”
Governor Fubara addressed the issue of debt in his administration, expressing concern that contractors from the previous administration, led by Nyesom Wike, are still awaiting significant payments.
He hinted at revealing more details if pressured, saying, “I’ve refrained from speaking out because I was part of that administration, but if pushed, I will reveal the financial details.”
Fubara also announced plans to present a detailed financial report, or ‘white paper,’ on the project’s funding. “As we move forward, we will provide a white paper showing the financial records and the amounts awarded for this project,” he stated.
The governor expressed his pleasure at beginning the celebrations of his ‘One Year in Office’ anniversary with the inauguration of a significant road project in Eleme, reflecting his early career days. He remarked that the completed project demonstrates his administration’s commitment to development despite various challenges. “I’m delighted to start this anniversary celebration here, showing our focus remains steadfast despite numerous distractions.”
Fubara concluded by explaining Otti’s presence at the event, stating that Otti is “a man of genuine integrity, demonstrated through actions, not just words.”
