Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has ordered the immediate repair and replacement of faulty patrol vehicles at a military base in the state’s Ndoki Road area. He gave the order during a surprise visit on his road inspection tour.
As the governor approached the junction leading to Ohanku Road, he instructed his convoy to stop. He stepped out and walked directly to soldiers stationed at a checkpoint within the Ndoki Road Primary School area.
He greeted the officer on duty and asked about the state of their work and whether the commander was present. The soldier quickly went to inform his superior, leading to the arrival of the officer in charge, Captain T. Yabiteigha.
The governor explained that his stop was not planned and that he simply wanted to check on their welfare while passing. He asked if they were facing any challenges in their operations.
During the discussion, Otti observed the condition of the base and noted that it required renovation. The officers then showed him their patrol vehicles, many of which were no longer in good condition and were not functional.
Following this, the governor immediately directed his Chief Security Officer, Ken Nwosu, to ensure that the faulty vehicles are repaired or replaced without delay and made available for use by the military personnel.
He also gave directives to the Director General of the Greater Aba Development Authority, Uche Ukeje. Ukeje, who was part of the inspection team, was to handle the renovation of the facility. He is also to ensure the installation of solar-powered lighting within the compound.
The visit later took an emotional turn when Captain Yabiteigha made an emotional remark. He reminded the governor of past support given to him and other injured soldiers after an earlier attack. This includes medical assistance and scholarships for families of fallen colleagues.
The officer expressed gratitude for the governor’s earlier intervention during their recovery and treatment.
Governor Otti later continued his inspection after the brief stop. The stop resulted in immediate directives aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of the soldiers at the base.
