The Stakeholders Solidarity and Grassroots Mobilization Tour of Umunneochi came to a vibrant close on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the Methodist Church Field in Mbala, Isuochi, Zone 2.
The well-attended event drew top political figures, government appointees, and community leaders from across Umunneochi, marking a strong show of unity and commitment to the progress of the area under Governor Alex Otti's administration.
Dignitaries in attendance included: Dr. Oluebube A. Chukwu, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Due Process; Hon. Sunny Afurobi, Mayor of Umunneochi LGA; Hon. Mathias Ume, Member representing Umunneochi in the Abia State House of Assembly; Hon. Chaka Ikenna Chukwumerije, Commissioner for Lands and Housing; Hon. Grace Ibe, Commissioner, House of Assembly Service Commission; Dr. Nzeako O. Nzeako, Chief of Staff to the Hon. Member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency; Chief Ibebuike, Assistant Secretary of the Labour Party; Barr. Otuonye; Prof. Nwankwo, Secretary to the Umunneochi Local Government Council; Hon. Augustine Mighty, Former Deputy Mayor of Umunneochi LGA; Rt. Hon. Kingsley Nwankwo; Comrade Chinedu, Abia Arise Umunneochi Youth Leader; Lady Salome Onwu, Women Leader of Abia Arise, Umunneochi; Very Rev. Steve Madueke, Presbyter, Methodist Church Nigeria, Mbala Circuit; Hon. David Mba, Councillor representing Amuda Ward; Hon. Ephraim Chukwubiko, Councillor representing Mbala/Achara Ward; High Chief Ike Orika; Chief Innocent Ejiuwa, Abia Arise Umunneochi LGA Coordinator, Dodo Okafor, SSA Public Communication; among several others.
The programme began with an opening prayer by Very Rev. Steve Madueke, after which the Onu Ugu Women of Mbala Ward received visiting stakeholders with a traditional welcome song. Zone 2 women then performed a captivating playlet, highlighting the achievements of Governor Alex Otti’s administration in Umunneochi.
Hon. Grace Ibe commended Umunneochi stakeholders for taking the lead in grassroots mobilization. She called for consolidation of the progress made and expressed optimism about Governor Otti’s re-election in 2027.
In a powerful address, Dr. Oluebube A. Chukwu rallied the people to deepen their support for Governor Alex Otti. “Dr. Chioma Alex Otti has simplified leadership for all to see,” he declared. “Such leadership has not been seen since the creation of our dear state. The achievements of this administration in less than 24 months speak volumes.” He described Governor Otti as a symbol of visionary and transparent leadership, urging the people to reject sentiments and stand firmly with a government that delivers.
Dr. Chukwu also applauded the efforts of Hon. Sunny Afurobi, the Executive Chairman of Umunneochi LGA, describing his leadership as people-centered and impactful. He urged continued support for the administration, stating that “anything associated with Governor Otti represents good things.” He further appreciated all stakeholders who have remained consistent and committed throughout the first round of the tour, describing them as the true strength behind the government’s connection with the people.
In a solidarity message, Hon. David Mba, the Councillor representing Amuda Ward of Zone 2 Umunneochi reaffirmed the town's total support for the Otti-led government. He described the governor as a beacon of hope and transformation and pledged that Amuda would remain a stronghold of progressive ideals and grassroots mobilization for the success of the administration.
He further praised Dr. Oluebube A. Chukwu for his humility, accessibility, and unwavering commitment to grassroots development, describing him as “a bridge between the people and the government.” According to the councillor, “Dr. Oluebube has redefined political representation. He has become a rallying point for young people, elders, and women alike, and we are proud of his efforts in service to the governor and the state.”
Also speaking, Rt. Hon. Kingsley Nwankwo of the Umunneochi Legislative Council, reiterated the Council’s readiness to work hand in hand with the executive arm of government to ensure sustained development and security across all wards. He urged the people to remain united and vigilant, assuring them that the dividends of democracy will continue to reach every community under Governor Otti's leadership.
Hon. Sunny Afurobi, Mayor of Umunneochi, expressed gratitude for the growing solidarity and praised Governor Otti’s inclusive governance style. He commended the people of Mbala for hosting the tour’s final Zone 2 meeting and emphasized that the administration’s focus remains on security, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.
Throughout the event, cultural displays and community performances added colour and energy, symbolizing the unity and enthusiasm that has characterized the entire tour. The turnout and engagement of community members, especially women and youth groups, reflected a growing political consciousness and deep appreciation for the state government’s achievements.
The Zone 2 meeting officially marked the conclusion of the first round of the Stakeholders Solidarity and Grassroots Mobilization Tour. It also reinforced the message that Umunneochi remains firmly aligned with the vision of Governor Alex Otti, a vision championed passionately by his loyal aide, Dr. Oluebube A. Chukwu, and supported by committed stakeholders across Umunneochi Local Government Area.
As the curtains drew on the event, one thing was clear: Umunneochi is not only witnessing a new era of development but is also actively shaping it zone by zone, ward by ward, voice by voice.
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