Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has commissioned a modern multimodal bus terminal in Umuahia and named it after Prof. Nnenna Nnennaya Oti, the INEC Returning Officer, who was widely praised for her courage and integrity during the 2023 governorship election.
The landmark project, now known as the Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal, was officially opened to the public on May 27, 2026. The state-of-the-art facility is designed to accommodate more than 340 buses at once and features sustainable infrastructure, including solar power, independent water supply, and integration with Abia’s expanding electric bus fleet.
During the commissioning, Governor Alex Otti paid glowing tribute to Prof. Oti, who famously declared his victory with the words “If I perish, I perish,” despite intense pressure and intimidation. He described the naming as a recognition not only of her personal bravery but of all electoral officials, security personnel, and citizens who stood for truth during the election.
“Her name on this terminal is not just about one person, but a tribute to all electoral officials, security operatives, party agents, and citizens who resisted intimidation and defended democracy.”
The Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal forms a key part of Governor Alex Otti’s broader vision to modernise transportation in Abia State. With 20 electric buses already operational and 50 more expected soon, the terminal is positioned as a forward-looking facility that promotes efficiency, sustainability, and economic growth.
The Governor commended the contractors for delivering a quality project and urged residents and the host community to take ownership of the facility by maintaining cleanliness and protecting public infrastructure.
The decision to name the terminal after Prof. Nnenna Oti has elicited strong reactions across the state and beyond. Many Abians and supporters of the Governor have applauded the move as a deserving honour for integrity and courage in public service. Supporters see it as a powerful symbol of gratitude and a celebration of democratic values.
However, the Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised the naming, describing it as partisan and provocative. They called on the Governor to reconsider the decision, arguing it could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
Despite the controversy, the commissioning of the terminal has been widely celebrated as another significant infrastructure milestone under the Otti administration, which has delivered hundreds of kilometres of roads and other key projects since assuming office.
Governor Alex Otti continues to receive praise from many residents for his focus on infrastructure development and good governance. The Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal is expected to ease transportation challenges in Umuahia, boost commercial activities, and serve as a model for other modern facilities across Abia State.
This development further cements the story of the 2023 election in Abia’s public memory while highlighting ongoing infrastructure transformation in the state.
