“Not a Curse, Just Bad Leadership”—Bourdex Reviews Gov. Otti’s 2-Year Administration | EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Discover what Chief Bourdex really thinks about Governor Otti’s two years in office. He speaks boldly on performance, politics, and Abia’s future. Read full!

In this exclusive interview with Chief Dr. David Ogba Onuoha Bourdex, MFR, OON, a respected industrialist and influential voice in Abia State, we delve into a rare and deeply insightful appraisal of Governor Alex Otti’s first two years in office. As Mayor Emeritus of Ohafia LGA and a prominent stakeholder in both the public and private sectors, Chief Bourdex provides an unfiltered assessment of the governor’s infrastructural revolution, policy reforms, youth empowerment, and the bold path forward for Abia’s development. He doesn’t just share perspectives—he sets a vision for what the next phase of leadership should look like in 2027 and beyond.

• As a prominent stakeholder in Abia State, how would you describe Governor Alex Otti’s performance in the past two years?

Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti OFR has not merely performed—he has delivered a paradigm shift. His administration has been a breath of fresh air in Abia’s political climate—an era defined by visionary leadership, fiscal discipline, and bold reforms.

In just two years, what many thought impossible has become reality. The Governor inherited a state drowning in infrastructural decay, unpaid salaries, and public disillusionment. But today, there’s renewed faith in governance. Roads once considered mythical—like the Ohafia to Arochukwu corridor—are now under construction. Civil servants are being paid promptly. Contractors are returning to site. Public infrastructure is being revived. Dr. Otti is restoring dignity, order, and direction to Abia State.

He came in as a jinx breaker, and in two years, he has proven that the so-called “Abia problem” was not a curse, but a consequence of poor leadership.

• What, in your view, stands out the most in terms of his achievements since assuming office in 2023?

What stands out most is Governor Alex Otti’s audacious commitment to infrastructural rebirth. In a state long trapped in neglect, he made infrastructure a frontline battle—and he is winning.

The turnaround in Aba, Umuahia, and other parts of the state is dramatic. Roads are not only being constructed but being done with quality. But beyond concrete and asphalt, what truly defines his achievement is his restoration of confidence—in governance, in institutions, and in ourselves. Dr. Otti has redefined what is possible when competence, character, and courage are brought to leadership.

• Road infrastructure has been one of the focus areas of Governor Otti’s administration. How would you assess the level and quality of road projects executed so far?

The quality and scope of road projects executed so far have been impressive and strategic. From the commercial arteries of Aba to critical rural links in Ohafia, Arochukwu, and Umunneochi, Governor Otti has prioritized roads that have both economic and social impact.

The use of reputable contractors, attention to drainage and lighting, and insistence on durable materials all signal a departure from the past. These are not cosmetic touch-ups—they are lasting interventions. Roads like Port Harcourt Road in Aba and the 67.6 km Umuahia-Ohafia road corridor are not just being constructed—they are being transformed.

• Would you say the road projects have positively impacted businesses and movement in Abia State? Can you share any specific examples?

Absolutely. Aba is breathing again. Jubilee Road, Ehi Road, and Cemetery Market Road have been brought back to life, extending business hours and restoring confidence in trade. Traders are moving goods faster, customers are returning, and logistics costs are going down.

In the rural axis, the Umuahia–Uzuakoli–Alayi–Abiriba–Ohafia highway has reconnected communities and opened up economic corridors for agriculture and commerce. The Port Harcourt Road now links smoothly to Ariaria Market, improving access for one of the largest commercial hubs in West Africa.

• Beyond roads, what’s your assessment of the administration’s investment in human capacity development – especially in areas like youth empowerment, education, and skills training?

Governor Otti has shown that he is not just building roads—he is also building people.

The AbiaFIRST initiative in education is visionary—targeting infrastructure, teacher retraining, and digital access. The youth empowerment schemes, especially in tech, agriculture, and enterprise training, are already bearing fruit.

Over 500 youths trained in ICT, 2,000 master trainers developed for public schools, and robust partnerships with international organizations are proof of serious intent. This is capacity building, not tokenism.

• Are there any notable state-led initiatives or reforms that have particularly impressed you in the last two years?

Yes, several. The Local Content Law mandating 70% of state procurement to favor local businesses is a masterstroke.

The creation of the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) is another bold step toward urban renewal. Digitization of the justice system, the Operation Crush security outfit, and the renewed emphasis on data-driven governance all reflect a forward-thinking administration that is building institutions—not just projects.

• While we have seen progress, what areas of governance do you believe the governor should urgently give more attention to moving forward?

I would urge greater attention to rural development and primary healthcare. Many remote communities still lack access to water, electricity, and quality medical services.

Institutional reforms also need to be deepened to ensure the sustainability of current gains. The civil service must be modernized. Waste management and urban planning need to catch up with the rapid infrastructural growth.

• Given what you have observed so far, do you think Governor Otti has a strong chance of securing re-election in 2027?

Yes, I believe he stands on strong footing. His achievements speak loudly, and public sentiment is in his favor.

However, he must not rest on past laurels. Re-election is not automatic. It will require continued performance, broader rural engagement, and strategic bridge-building. But if he stays the course, the people will reward good governance.

• What advice would you offer to the governor and his team as they approach the second half of their first term?

Consolidate the gains. Institutionalize the reforms. Scale impact.

Focus on rural inclusion, health sector revitalization, and private sector partnerships. Communicate the achievements more aggressively—not through propaganda, but with facts and human stories. And above all, stay close to the people. This next half is not for sprinting—it is for sealing the legacy.

• Chief, you have played significant roles in both the private and public sectors. Do you have any political aspirations ahead of 2027 that Abians should be aware of?

Thank you. That is a question many have asked, and it’s one I continue to reflect upon prayerfully. Just as His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti has wisely stated that he will seek divine guidance in deciding whether to run for a second term as Governor, I too believe that any political aspiration—especially at this level—must be anchored in God’s will and purpose.

I will not move ahead of divine timing or outside of the larger vision our party is pursuing under His Excellency’s leadership. I remain a loyal party man, committed to the cause and progress we have collectively embarked upon. Whatever role I may be called to play—if any—in 2027, will be based on two things: the prompting of divine guidance, and the directive of His Excellency, whose judgment I trust and whose vision for Abia State I deeply share.

For now, my focus remains on contributing meaningfully to our state’s development, strengthening the party, and supporting the Governor in consolidating the gains of this transformational administration.

• How do you intend to continue contributing to the growth and development of Abia State – whether in politics, business, or mentorship?

In politics, I will keep pushing for regional development and federal attention to neglected zones.

In business, I will invest, create jobs, and open new frontiers in ICT and infrastructure. In mentorship, I will raise the next generation of leaders, continue writing, and offer guidance to those willing to serve with humility and integrity.

Whether through a mandate, a message, or a model—I will continue to serve.

• Finally, what is your message to the people of Abia State as they reflect on two years of Governor Alex Otti’s leadership?

Abians, we are witnessing a rebirth.

Let us protect it. Let us nurture it. Let us not look back.

Support good governance not just with applause, but with active citizenship. Demand more. Expect more. And give more of yourselves to the process of rebuilding our dear state.

The light is shining again in Abia. May it never go dim.

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