Femi Falana, a renown Nigerian Human Rights lawyer hails Governor Alex Otti’s reforms, citing visible progress in Abia’s infrastructure and public services.
The renowned Nigerian lawyer Femi Falana has praised Abia State Governor Alex Otti for what he described as a “visible transformation” in governance and infrastructure across the southeastern state.
Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), made the remarks on Wednesday October 8, 2025, after visiting the governor at his residence in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. Speaking with reporters after the visit, he said he was “deeply impressed” by the changes taking place in the state under Otti’s administration.
“I have been coming to Abia since the return of civilian rule in 1999, and I can say without fear of contradiction that I have now seen signs of governance that were absent before,” Falana said.
He explained that although his trip to Abia was for another engagement, he decided to stop by to see the governor, whom he described as a “comrade” from their activist days. “It would have been improper if I didn’t inform him that I was in his state,” he said.
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Falana commended the state’s improved infrastructure, noting the newly built roads, renovated schools, and upgraded hospitals. He also said he received “very positive comments” from residents who have witnessed changes in governance and public service delivery.
Governor Otti, who assumed office in 2023 under the Labour Party, has been widely credited with an ambitious clean-up and urban renewal program in Aba, Abia’s commercial capital. Once regarded as one of Nigeria’s dirtiest cities, Aba is now witnessing significant reconstruction and beautification efforts.
Falana urged the governor to remain people-focused and ensure that the gains of democracy translate into tangible benefits for citizens. “The people must benefit from the dividends of democracy, and that is the true measure of good governance,” he said. “I am confident he can do even more, but he owes a duty not to disappoint the people.”
Just days earlier, Otti accompanied President Bola Tinubu to inaugurate the long-neglected 6.7-kilometre Port Harcourt Road in Aba—rebuilt into a three-lane carriageway by the state government. Tinubu, represented by Minister of Works Dave Umahi, also opened seven other roads, describing the projects as “a testament to genuine democratic dividends.”
Governor Otti said the projects marked Aba’s return to its “rightful place as a commercial powerhouse,” pledging continued investment in infrastructure and urban renewal across Abia State.
