In a bid to deepen grassroots governance and promote inclusive leadership, the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, has commenced a comprehensive ward sensitization tour across Ohafia Local Government Area, beginning with Ania Ward.

The tour kicked off in Akanu Ohafia, where the Deputy Governor was warmly received by a large cross-section of the community, comprising members of the and non-partisan residents. The visit was widely described as a welcome development by the Ezie-in-Council, as well as sons and daughters of Akanu, who gathered in large numbers to engage with the state’s number two citizen.

During the interactive session, community stakeholders expressed appreciation for the visit and used the opportunity to highlight key challenges affecting the area. Chief among these concerns was the protracted kingship tussle, which, according to Iyia Ada Maduka, has significantly hindered development and unity within the community. They appealed to the state government to urgently intervene and facilitate a lasting resolution.

The Deputy Governor also proceeded to Abia Ohafia community, where he was received by the Abia Ohafia Council of Chiefs and a high-powered delegation of the Abia Ohafia Development Union, led by its President, Rev. Kelechi Awa. The community lauded the current administration for what they described as unprecedented developmental strides.

Speaking on behalf of the community, Rev. Awa commended the administration of , noting that the level of development being witnessed in Abia Ohafia is unparalleled in the community’s history. He reaffirmed the community’s continued support for the government and expressed pride in their earlier electoral backing.

“This is the first time we are witnessing this level of development in our community, and we are proud to say that we supported Dr. Alex Otti and our son, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu,” he stated.

Despite the commendations, the community highlighted pressing issues, including the lack of street lighting and ongoing boundary disputes with the neighbouring Ihechiowa community. They appealed to the Deputy Governor to intervene and restore peace and stability.

In his response, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu expressed gratitude for the warm reception accorded him and his team. He assured both communities that their concerns would receive prompt attention, particularly issues relating to peace restoration and the completion of road projects in Abia Ohafia.

Also present during the tour was the Member representing Ohafia South State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Kalu Mba Nwoke. Addressing the gathering, he reiterated the commitment of elected officials to delivering the dividends of democracy.

“You elected us to represent you and bring development closer to the people. We are proud to say we are fulfilling that mandate. We urge you to come out en masse, obtain your Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and be ready to support this government again come 2027,” he said.

Other dignitaries present at the event included Dr. Justice Okechukwu Martins, Special Adviser to the Governor on Culture and Tourism; Chief David Ogba (Boudex), former Mayor of Ohafia LGA; Hon. Eme Iro Eme, Deputy Mayor of Ohafia LGA; Hon. Kingsley Ajike, Councillor representing Ania Ward; and members of the Mben Political Assembly, among others.

The ward sensitization tour is expected to continue across other wards in Ohafia LGA as part of His Excellency’s broader effort to strengthen grassroots engagement and participatory governance.

Caption:
Emetu Takes Governance to the Grassroots as Ohafia Sensitization Tour Begins in Ania Ward