Alex Otti, governor of Abia State, has dismissed criticism over his decision to name a newly commissioned bus terminal in Umuahia after Nnenna Oti, saying those opposed to the move are free to name their own projects after anyone they choose.
In a viral video seen by ALO 360, Otti defended the decision, insisting that Oti deserved the recognition for her conduct during the 2023 governorship election in Abia State.
Earlier, the governor named the newly commissioned terminal after the vice-chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, who served as the returning officer for the election.
Otti said the facility was named in honour of Oti because of the integrity she displayed while carrying out her duties.
“The facility is named in honour of Prof. Nnenna Nnennaya-Oti, the courageous INEC returning officer in the 2023 governorship election,” he had said.
“Her integrity and patriotism remind us that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary results by simply standing for the truth.”
Responding to criticism of the decision, the governor said he would not be drawn into arguments with opponents.
“We have no response for those criticising our decision to name the newly commissioned terminal after Prof. Nnenna Oti,” he said.
“Those who are against it should wait for their turn.”
Otti said critics are free to honour individuals of their choice whenever they execute similar projects.
“When they build their own bus terminal, they can name it after whoever they choose, even Anini the robber,” he said.
The governor maintained that Oti’s actions during the election distinguished her from many others who had occupied similar positions.
“Of course, Prof. Nnenna Oti did her job, but how many people in similar positions have had the courage to do theirs?” he said.