RismadarVoice Reporters
October 31, 2026
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has explained his administration’s decision to adopt electric vehicles instead of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses for public transportation, describing the choice as part of efforts to modernise the state’s transport system.
Otti explained during his October monthly media chat held on Friday at the Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia.
The governor said electric vehicles represented a technological advancement over conventional internal combustion engines, which are used in both petrol-powered and CNG-powered vehicles.
He maintained that the state government’s preference for electric buses did not amount to opposition to CNG technology, acknowledging that CNG remained a cheaper alternative to petrol for many motorists.
According to him, private companies have expressed interest in establishing additional CNG refuelling stations across Abia, with discussions and preliminary agreements already reached with some investors.
Otti explained that the proposed facilities would primarily serve privately owned vehicles and other commercial users rather than the state’s public transportation fleet.
The governor also expressed support for businesses specialising in converting petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles to CNG.
Abia has already deployed 40 electric buses under its Green Shuttle Service, with the Federal Government’s clean mobility initiative confirming that the state operates 20 charging stations.
The state’s Transport Commissioner, Chimezie Ukaegbu, had previously identified gas supply and refuelling infrastructure challenges as factors influencing the government’s initial decision to prioritise electric buses.
Meanwhile, Otti addressed concerns over continued street trading at Isi-Gate, a major commercial area in Umuahia.
He acknowledged the need to restore order and improve accessibility within the state capital but cautioned against displacing traders without considering their livelihoods.
The governor explained that street trading remained a challenge even in developed cities, adding that enforcement measures must consider the economic circumstances of affected residents.
He promised that traders displaced from eligible shops during the government’s urban renewal activities would receive compensation.
Otti also disclosed that the administration was exploring alternative trading locations to prevent unnecessary economic hardship.
He maintained that the relocation process would be gradual, balancing urban development, public safety and the economic welfare of residents.
