The 2027 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State, Dr. Kelechi Anosike, has criticised the state government’s restriction on commercial motorcycle operations, describing the policy as insensitive to the livelihoods of thousands of operators.
Addressing journalists in Umuahia, Anosike argued that while government has a responsibility to ensure public safety, policies affecting citizens’ means of livelihood should be accompanied by practical alternatives.
According to him, banning commercial motorcycle operators from major routes without providing substitute means of income places undue hardship on affected residents.
He maintained that a government guided by a welfare-driven philosophy would prioritise the welfare of citizens when formulating public policies.
Anosike also faulted the retirement of civil servants who had served as directors for eight years under the administration of Alex Otti, alleging that about 10,000 workers were retired despite not meeting the statutory retirement requirements of 35 years of service or 60 years of age.
He pledged that, if elected governor in 2027, his administration would reverse such policies and adopt a more humane approach to governance.
The PDP candidate stressed that good governance should not be measured solely by physical infrastructure but by the overall well-being of the people.
“Infrastructure is important, but the true measure of good governance is the welfare of the people. Development must be holistic and inclusive,” he said.
On economic development, Anosike promised to revive abandoned cottage industries across the state and harness Abia’s natural resources, including limestone and gypsum deposits, to create jobs and stimulate industrial growth.
He also unveiled several welfare proposals, including improved salary structures across the civil service, judiciary, and local government system, the establishment of a civil service college with modern facilities, discounted recreational services for civil servants, and a car loan scheme for eligible workers.
Speaking on local government administration, Anosike pledged to review the state’s joint local government account framework to ensure that funds allocated to each local government are used directly for grassroots development.
He further proposed the establishment of an Abia Rural Development Agency to accelerate infrastructure and economic development in rural communities.
Reaffirming his ambition, the PDP flagbearer said he entered the 2027 governorship race because he believes Abia can achieve greater progress through policies that place the welfare of citizens at the centre of governance.
MukTV News reports that the Abia State Government has maintained that its restriction on commercial motorcycle operations in parts of Aba, Umuahia, and Ohafia was introduced to improve public safety and order within the affected metropolitan areas.
