Amid rising endorsements and growing calls for a second term, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has stated that he will seek divine direction before deciding whether to contest the 2027 gubernatorial election.

 

Governor Otti made this declaration at the Sam Ihesiulor Stadium, Okpuala Ngwa, during a grand civic reception and appreciation ceremony organized by the Oha Isiala Ngwa People of Isiala Ngwa North and South Local Government Areas. The event was held in recognition of his achievements, particularly infrastructure projects in the area.

 

“Just like 2023 was in the hands of God, 2027 will also be in the hands of God,” the Governor said. “While I thank you for this endorsement, which I consider an acknowledgment of what has been achieved so far, I will return to consult my God. My response will be made public in due time.”

 

 

 

Focus on Infrastructure and Inclusive Development

 

Governor Otti explained that his administration’s prioritization of infrastructure development in Aba, the state’s commercial hub, is a strategic economic decision intended to boost internally generated revenue and enable broader development across Abia.

 

“Aba is key to our development strategy—not just for Abia, but for the entire South East and South-South. It holds the potential to generate the revenue needed to develop other parts of the state,” he emphasized.

 

 

 

He assured residents that his government remains committed to balanced development and inclusive governance, adding that major projects are underway across the state.

 

Project Milestones and Airport Clarification

 

The Governor announced that the Mgboko–Ntigha Road project is scheduled for completion by December 2025. He also addressed concerns regarding the siting of the Abia Airport in Nsulu, stating that the location was chosen based solely on technical merit, not political bias.

 

“We’ve paid 100% compensation to all affected landowners. If there’s anyone yet to be paid, it’s likely due to incorrect account details or land disputes,” he clarified.

 

 

 

Describing the airport as more than just an aviation facility, Otti revealed that the project will include a hotel, shopping plazas, a Nigerian Air Force base, and other commercial infrastructure, creating what he called an “airport city.”

 

Political Endorsements and Party Realignments

 

The event also saw notable political developments, as former members of the PDP, Accord Party, and members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) publicly declared support for the Labour Party, aligning with Governor Otti’s administration.

 

In response to this support, the Governor directed the Commissioners for Works and Youth & Sports to begin immediate transformation of the Sam Ihesiulor Stadium into a modern, standard sports facility.

 

Stakeholder Endorsements and Diaspora Support

 

Several leaders praised the Governor’s achievements and called on him to seek reelection:

 

Hon. Ginger Onwusibe (House of Representatives, Isiala Ngwa North/South)

 

Senator Darlington Nwokocha

 

Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu (Abia State House of Assembly)

 

 

They commended Governor Otti’s focus on infrastructure and human capital development, declaring that there is “no vacancy in Government House, Umuahia, until 2031.”

 

Also speaking, Mr. Obinna Anaba and Mr. Cyril Ishmael lauded the administration’s strides in social welfare and economic reforms, describing Otti as a model of effective leadership.

 

Representing the diaspora, Dr. Ugochukwu Agu, President of the Ngwa National Association in the USA and Canada, highlighted the group’s support for Otti’s initiatives, announcing scholarship and skills acquisition programmes to complement the state’s development agenda.

 

A Resounding Show of Support

 

The event was attended by a cross-section of Isiala Ngwa’s sons and daughters from diverse sectors—including politics, academia, business, traditional leadership, and grassroots communities—demonstrating wide grassroots support for the Governor’s performance and his potential bid for a second term.