The Abia State Government has unveiled plans to immortalize Professor Nnenna Oti, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), in recognition of her exceptional integrity and principled stance during the 2023 general elections.
Governor Alex Otti made this significant announcement during a thanksgiving service held at the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Ohafia, Abia State, where he celebrated his electoral victory and first year in office.
A Stand for Justice and Truth
Governor Otti highlighted Professor Oti's courageous role as the Returning Officer for the Abia State Governorship election, where she resisted immense pressure and financial inducements to manipulate the election results. "She stood her ground and insisted that the will of the people must prevail," the Governor stated, acknowledging her as a true mother in Israel.
Celebrating Academic Excellence and Moral Courage
The decision to immortalize Professor Oti represents the state government's commitment to recognizing and rewarding integrity in public service. Governor Otti emphasized that her actions demonstrated that "the labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain," referencing Nigeria's national anthem.
Professor Nnenna Oti, a distinguished academic and the first female Vice Chancellor of FUTO, has become a symbol of ethical leadership in Nigeria's educational and political landscape. Her steadfastness during the electoral process has earned her widespread admiration across the country.
A New Era of Recognition
This move by the Abia State Government signals a shift toward celebrating public servants who uphold ethical standards and demonstrate courage in the face of pressure. The specific form of immortalization will be announced in the coming weeks, with expectations of a lasting tribute that will inspire future generations.
The announcement has been widely praised by civil society organizations, educational institutions, and transparency advocates who see it as a positive step toward encouraging integrity in Nigerian public life.
