…As solar project illuminates Bende, signals grassroots impact
Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
A fresh political signal ahead of the 2027 general elections emerged on Sunday, as a member of the House of Representatives, Ginger Onwusibe, declared that Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, will not oppose the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Onwusibe, who represents Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, made the declaration at Lohum Umuimenyi in Bende Local Government Area during the flag-off of “Project Switch On Bende,” facilitated by the Abia State Chief Liaison Officer in Abuja, Frank Chinasa.
The lawmaker based his position on what he described as the “verifiable performance” of both leaders, insisting they have earned the right to seek another term.
“Governor Otti has performed; Mr President has also performed. Both have earned their second tenure,” Onwusibe said.
“The governor has the capacity to deliver and will not oppose the President’s re-election. That is my personal position.”
He criticised previous administrations in the state, arguing that Governor Otti’s achievements within three years have surpassed those of former governors such as Orji Uzor Kalu, Theodore Orji, and Okezie Ikpeazu.
“I have been in politics since 1999 and served under different governments. I can say, with every sense of responsibility, that Alex Otti has outperformed them,” he added, predicting a landslide re-election victory for the governor in 2027.
Beyond the political undertone, the event spotlighted a major infrastructure boost in Bende Federal Constituency, as Chinasa rolled out a solar-powered street lighting initiative aimed at enhancing security and stimulating economic activity.
Chinasa disclosed that 486 solar streetlights had already been installed across Uzuakoli and Umuimenyi wards within months under the Niger Delta Development Commission’s “Light Up the Niger Delta” programme.
“This is beyond lighting streets; it is about restoring confidence in governance, improving security, and creating opportunities,” he said.
He urged residents and community leaders to safeguard the installations to ensure sustainability.
Representing the governor, the Commissioner for Health, Ogbonnaya Enoch, described Chinasa as a valuable asset capable of delivering more with greater responsibility.
In their separate remarks, the Mayor of Bende LGA, Uwabunkeonye Bassey, and the Chairman of the occasion, Johnson Chukwu, commended the initiative, noting its immediate impact at the grassroots.
The well-attended event drew traditional rulers, political actors, and community stakeholders, highlighting both the developmental gains and the subtle political alignments shaping the road to 2027.
