The Online Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria (OMPAN), Abia State Chapter, has extended warm felicitations to the member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah, on the occasion of his birthday, describing him as a distinguished legislator, grassroots politician, and philanthropist committed to the welfare of his people.

In a congratulatory message endorsed by the Chairman of the Association, Comrade Promise Uzoma Okoro, ANIPR, OMPAN praised Hon. Ogah, who also serves as Patron of the Association, for his dedication to quality representation and impactful service to humanity.

The Association noted that Hon. Ogah has continued to distinguish himself through people-centered leadership, developmental initiatives, and a strong commitment to improving the lives of constituents across Isuikwuato and Umunneochi Federal Constituency.

According to OMPAN, the federal lawmaker’s contributions in the areas of education, youth empowerment, healthcare, and community development have positively transformed many lives, earning him admiration beyond political and social boundaries.

The Association further commended Hon. Ogah for his support to media practitioners in Abia State, noting that as one of the Patrons of OMPAN Abia, he has consistently championed initiatives that promote professionalism, ethical journalism, and the growth of online media practice in the state.

Describing the celebrant as a humble, accessible, and responsive leader, OMPAN said his birthday anniversary presents yet another opportunity to celebrate a man whose passion for service continues to inspire hope among the people.

The Association prayed for God’s continued blessings, sound health, divine wisdom, and greater strength for Hon. Ogah as he continues to render selfless service to his constituents, Abia State, and the nation at large.

As Nigeria marked this year’s Democracy Day, the Abia State Chapter of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has called for greater inclusion of women in politics, governance, and leadership, emphasizing that democracy can only thrive when every voice is heard and represented.

In a goodwill message to Nigerians, the Chairperson of Abia NAWOJ, Ambassador Norah Okafor, congratulated citizens on the commemoration of Democracy Day, describing the occasion as a moment of reflection on the nation’s democratic journey and the enduring values of participation, accountability, justice, and equal opportunity.

According to her, democracy flourishes best in an environment where women are not sidelined but actively involved in shaping policies and decisions that impact society.

“Today, we celebrate not only our democratic journey but also the values of inclusion, participation, accountability, and equal opportunity for all citizens. Democracy thrives when every voice is heard, and women must continue to have a seat at the table where decisions that shape our society are made,” she stated.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to championing the empowerment of women and encouraging their active participation in governance, stressing that women possess the competence, vision, and leadership capacity required for nation-building.

Abia NAWOJ further called for stronger support systems, mentorship, and opportunities that would encourage more women to contest elections, assume leadership positions, and influence policies that directly affect communities.

Speaking on the role of the media in deepening democracy, Amb. Okafor emphasized that women journalists have a sacred duty to uphold the ethics of the journalism profession through fairness, accuracy, objectivity, and responsible reporting.

She noted that ethical journalism remains a powerful tool for promoting informed civic engagement, amplifying marginalized voices, and strengthening democratic institutions across the country.

“As we mark this Democracy Day, let us work together to build a society where women are empowered, democratic values are protected, and the media continues to serve as a pillar of truth and accountability,” she added.

The association prayed for continued peace, unity, and democratic progress in Abia State and Nigeria at large, wishing all Nigerians a memorable Democracy Day celebration.

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has called on Nigerians to renew their faith in democracy, reject political greed, electoral manipulation and violence.
He urged all to embrace active citizenship as the surest path to national development and sustainable freedom.

In his 2026 Democracy Day address titled, “Of Freedom and Development,” Governor Otti reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey, describing June 12 as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by pro-democracy heroes who fought against military dictatorship and paid dearly to restore democratic governance in the country.

The Governor noted that despite disappointments recorded since the return to civil rule in 1999, democracy remains the most credible platform for nation-building, insisting that Nigeria’s democratic shortcomings stem not from the failure of democracy itself, but from poor leadership choices and collective decisions by citizens.

He acknowledged the growing frustration among many Nigerians over widening economic hardship and unfulfilled expectations,but urged citizens not to surrender to hopelessness.

“A lot may have gone wrong, but there is still so much to fight for , for ourselves and generations yet unborn,” Otti declared. Stressing that national progress requires resilience, patriotism and a collective commitment to democratic ideals.

Paying glowing tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, particularly those who resisted military oppression between 1993 and 1999, the Governor said many patriots sacrificed their comfort, liberty and even their lives to secure the freedoms Nigerians enjoy today.

According to him, the struggle for liberty and development remains unfinished, charging Nigerians to honour the memories of fallen democratic heroes by defending justice, accountability and national unity.

Governor Otti strongly condemned terrorism, violent extremism and political intolerance, warning that insecurity and economic greed pose grave threats to democracy and national stability.

He maintained that Nigeria must confront criminality and terrorism decisively while simultaneously addressing enabling factors such as economic injustice, sectarianism and political exploitation.

The Abia Governor also used the occasion to caution citizens against electoral complacency ahead of future elections, emphasizing that democracy thrives only when citizens remain vigilant and actively involved in governance.

He warned Nigerians against selling their votes, accepting political inducements or becoming tools of violence and ethnic division, describing such actions as a betrayal of public trust.
“When citizens accept bribes for votes or offer themselves as agents of violence and division, they become conspirators in the desecration of democracy,” he stated.

Speaking on governance in Abia State, Governor Otti said democracy has empowered the people to reclaim their destiny after years of setbacks, pointing to investments in infrastructure, security, human capital development and social welfare as evidence of transformational leadership under his administration.

He declared that Abia’s restoration was driven not by authoritarian leadership but by the democratic will of the people who elected leaders committed to service and accountability.
“The pride of our land is being restored. Our progress is irreversible, and we shall never return to the old order of mediocrity,” the Governor affirmed.
Otti further urged Abians to remain politically conscious and informed as preparations begin for another electoral cycle, stressing that democracy demands knowledge, vigilance and responsible decision-making.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the trust reposed in it by the people, assuring residents that the state would continue on the path of sustainable growth and development.
The Governor concluded by calling on Nigerians to remain united in pursuit of shared dreams of justice, liberty and prosperity, urging citizens to make choices that reflect their collective aspirations for a better future.