Abia North Stakeholders Back Governor Otti for Re-election

A coalition of non-political figures from Abiriba, located in the Abia North Senatorial District, announced its dedication on Saturday to upholding good governance well beyond 2031. The group formally endorsed Governor Alex Otti for a second term in office, attributing their support to his “exceptional and visible performance” across vital sectors of the state. This declaration was made by a non-political and non-partisan alliance committed to good governance in Abia State. Its membership includes stakeholders, captains of industry, professionals, and opinion leaders from Abia North. The endorsement followed their inaugural meeting, which took place at the residence of Chief Ebueme Ezikpe in Abiriba, Ohafia Local Government Area.

Speaking to journalists after the gathering, Professor Mkpa Agu Mkpa, the group's spokesperson and a former Secretary to the Abia State Government, explained that the meeting was convened to devise strategies for maintaining the robust governance framework established by the Otti administration. He stated, “The purpose was simple: to ensure that good governance in Abia is preserved and sustained,” noting that representatives from all five local government areas of Abia North—Bende, Ohafia, Arochukwu, Isuikwuato, and Umunneochi—were present.

Professor Mkpa further clarified that the participants, comprising stakeholders, opinion leaders, industry captains, accomplished professionals, and prime movers, were not motivated by a desire for political patronage. He emphasized, “They are self-made Abians who, by God’s grace, need nothing from government except to see good governance sustained.”

According to Mkpa, attendees unanimously lauded the governor’s achievements in various areas, including education, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, security, transportation, and public service. He affirmed, “It was unanimous that Abia has never had it so good. The governor does not need extensive campaigns because his work speaks for him.”

The group committed to mobilizing eligible voters to acquire their Permanent Voter Cards in preparation for the 2027 general elections. They also pledged to actively work towards ensuring the election of candidates from the governor’s party into both the state and National Assembly. Furthermore, the alliance vowed to safeguard the governance template initiated by Otti beyond 2031, aiming to ensure future administrations continue to build upon the current accomplishments.

Robert Onyeani, a businessman and proprietor of Ahudiyannem Queens Football Club, highlighted how the improved road network in Abia North has spurred private investment and boosted commercial activities. Onyeani remarked, “He has reconstructed the road from Umuahia to Arochukwu. I relocated my two football teams and my hotel to Abiriba because of the improved road infrastructure. Our stakeholders have agreed to do everything possible to ensure Governor Otti is re-elected in 2027 and succeeds in handing over to a credible successor who will sustain what he has started.”

Chief Ebueme Ezikpe, who hosted the meeting, revealed that the group intentionally excluded career politicians and individuals seeking political appointments. He stated, “Nobody here is seeking political office or anything from the governor. We are Abians who have witnessed a different style of governance. For over 25 years, Abia was in a deplorable condition. As a businessman in Aba, many of us had to relocate for safety. That has changed.” Ezikpe concluded by noting that the group is united not only in supporting Otti’s re-election but also in backing credible candidates who will collaborate with the governor at both the state and federal legislative levels.