Abia Motor Union Inaugurates New Executive, Backs Otti’s Administration

In a significant step toward the reorganization and urbanization of the transport sector in Abia State, the Cooperative Motor Union, under the leadership of Mr. Chukwuma Azode has inaugurated a new set of executive members to oversee the affairs of Aba township bus drivers in the state.

The inauguration ceremony, which took place Friday, marked a new chapter for public transportation in the city and aligned closely with the vision of Governor Dr. Alex Otti to revolutionize transport infrastructure and services across the state.

At the heart of the newly constituted leadership is Chief Chidiebere Anyanwu Ogaraku, a seasoned transport stakeholder with decades of experience in the sector. He now assumes the role of Chairman for the Aba Township Bus Drivers’ Union.

His appointment is seen as strategic and timely, considering his reputation for discipline, vision, and operational expertise. Also Mr. Isaac Eche, member of National Association of Road Transport Workers Union (NARTO) takes over as Deputy Chairman while Dan Nkeochere, member of the Road transport employees association of Nigeria (RTEAN) assumed the position of the 1st Vice President, coupled with many others.

This collaboration between the three transport unions in the state speaks to Azode’s expertise in carrying all three transport unions in the state along in every aspect.

In his remarks, President of the Cooperative Motor Union, Mr. Azode, stated that the new leadership is aimed at restoring sanity, discipline, and professionalism among bus drivers in Aba.

He emphasized that this change aligns with the larger goals of the present administration under Governor Alex Otti, who has consistently demonstrated a commitment to infrastructure development, transport modernization, and the welfare of transporters.

“The days of neglect for drivers are over. Governor Alex Otti has given us roads, stable electricity, and a new urban transport vision. It is only right that we match that effort with strong leadership and order within our union,” he said.

Azode praised the state’s Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, for his inclusive approach and hands-on support to transport unions across the state.

He noted that the Ministry of Transport has made it a point of duty to carry all union branches along in state planning and execution, an approach he described as “revolutionary.”

He also emphasized the ongoing urbanization of transport in Abia State, a cornerstone of Governor Otti’s vision.

The administration has prioritized road reconstruction, establishment of transport terminals, and cleanliness enforcement across motor parks.

This has begun to change the narrative of chaotic, unregulated road use to a more efficient, commuter-friendly transport experience.

In his acceptance speech, the new chairman Chief Chidiebere Ogaraku expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and pledged to lead with integrity, vision, and respect for both drivers and the public.

“This is not just a position; it is a responsibility to ensure that the transport system in Aba reflects the new Abia we are building under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti,” Ogaraku said.

“Our drivers will be organized, responsible, and clean. We will enforce discipline and improve communication with government stakeholders.”

He promised to build stronger collaboration between drivers, union leaders, and government agencies to address challenges such as traffic congestion, overloading, and poor hygiene at bus parks.

Advising the new chairman, urged him to uphold the present atmosphere of peace and order in the state and ensure that every bus driver under his leadership conforms to the cleanliness and organizational standards already being promoted.

“Don’t lead with power, lead with vision,” he told Ogaraku. “Governor Alex Otti has given us a model, roads are clean, power is stable, development is visible.

“It is your job to mirror that vision within your union. No more excuses. Let our drivers be proud of the system they represent.”

He further reminded drivers of the importance of maintaining hygiene, stating that “a clean bus and a clean terminal show respect to the people of Abia State.”

The inauguration of Chief Ogaraku and the new leadership signals a transformative era for transport in Aba. With the alignment between grassroots unions and the state government, stakeholders are optimistic that the vision of Governor Otti for a modern, urban, and people-focused transport system is steadily becoming a reality.