21st September, 2023
By Sam Obinna Ibe/ Umuahia
Former First Lady of Nigeria, Dame Patience Jonathan has lauded Governor Alex Otti for the strides he has recorded in the clean-up of Abia State since he was sworn into office on 29 May.
Mrs. Jonathan gave the commendation at during a visit to Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area country home of Governor Otti.
Mrs Jonathan stopped at the country home for a courtesy visit and noted that Abia is clean and no longer smelling under Dr. Alex Chioma Otti’s led Administration.
She commended Otti for cleaning up the streets of putrid stench which she said was associated with the state prior to the assumption of office of Governor.
She said Otti has performed well within the first one hundred days he took over as the fifth Executive Governor of Abia State.
The former first lady of Nigeria, Patience Jonathan has her maternal roots in Ohuhu in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.
Thus, according to a statement issued by the Chief of Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Kazie Uko, the erstwhile First Lady described Otti as her brother and mentor.
“This is my home and I have come to visit my brother, my Governor in whom I’m well pleased. He is my mentor. When I was in government, he supported me as a brother. I have come to share experience with him and to tell him congratulations, well done.”
“Abia is our home. Any time, any day he calls me, I will be there for him. He is doing very, very well. He started well and I know he will end well.
“You can see that there is no dirt again in Abia State. You can see all the road works going on. You can drive around and there is no dirt, no smell anywhere, and you can breathe fresh air. That’s why I’m here to tell him, congratulations,” Mrs. Jonathan said excitedly.
In his response, Abia State Governor, Dr. Otti thanked the former First Lady for visiting and sharing her experience in government with him.
“I want to thank her for this visit and for the very kind words. We have just started and the sky is not even our limit. I’m very happy that she found time to visit with me. My prayer is that God will continue to keep her, her family and her husband,” the Governor prayed.
The member representing Umuahia North, Umuahia South and Ikwuano in the National Assembly, Hon Obi Aguocha and some members of Abia State Executive Council joined the Governor to receive Mrs. Jonathan.