Prince Ike Okorafor, the founder of IOK Educational Foundation, and the CEO of Evolette Health Advisory Limited, has reacted to the mixed feelings expressed by Abians on the performance and promises of Governor Alex Otti, who marks his first six months in office today. Prince Ike Okorafor, who is also a former candidate for the Arochukwu State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, said that he shares the concerns and expectations of the people of Abia State, especially those of his constituency, who gave their mandate to Governor Otti in the 2023 general elections.
Prince Ike Okorafor acknowledged the achievements of Governor Otti in some areas, such as security, health, and investment, but also pointed out the challenges and gaps in other areas, such as roads, education, power, water, unemployment, poverty, transparency, and accountability. He said that Governor Otti has not done enough to justify the confidence and trust that the people of Abia State reposed in him and his party, the Labour Party (LP), which broke the 24-year rule of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. He said that Governor Otti has not fulfilled his campaign promises to the people, such as conducting local government elections, paying pension arrears, and reducing the cost of governance.
Prince Ike Okorafor urged Governor Otti to step up and make Abians proud of their mandate, saying that he has the potential and the opportunity to transform the state and make it a model of good governance and development in Nigeria. He advised Governor Otti to be more transparent and accountable to the people, as well as more responsive and accessible to their needs and aspirations. He also called on Governor Otti to prioritize the development of the rural areas, especially the Arochukwu State Constituency, which he said has been neglected and marginalized for too long. He said that the people of Arochukwu deserve better infrastructure, education, health, power, water, and economic opportunities.
Prince Ike Okorafor also appealed to the people of Abia State to continue to support and pray for Governor Otti, saying that he believes that the governor can still turn things around and deliver on his promises to the people. He said that he is ready to work with the governor and other stakeholders to ensure the progress and prosperity of the state. He said that he is also committed to his own vision and mission of empowering and uplifting the people of his constituency and the state at large, through his various initiatives and programs, such as the Project One Pad, the Accord Project, the Agro Rural Aid, the Better Health for all Abians, and the Maternal Health Campaign. He said that he is motivated by his passion for good governance, public health, education, and entrepreneurship.