Abia North group backs Otti for another term

A group of non-politicians from Abiriba in Abia North Senatorial District has shown support for Governor Alex Otti. They want to maintain good governance in the state beyond 2031. They praised his "exceptional and visible performance" in important areas.

This group includes leaders from a non-political alliance for good governance in Abia State. They also invited stakeholders, industry leaders, professionals, and opinion leaders from Abia North. They made this announcement after their first meeting at Chief Ebueme Ezikpe's home in Abiriba, Ohafia Local Government Area.

After the meeting, the group's spokesman, Prof. Mkpa Agu Mkpa, spoke to journalists. He said the meeting aimed to find ways to keep the good governance established by Otti's administration. "The purpose was simple: to ensure that good governance in Abia is preserved and sustained," he explained. He noted that people came from all five local government areas in Abia North, Bende, Ohafia, Arochukwu, Isuikwuato, and Umunneochi.

Mkpa mentioned that the attendees included stakeholders, opinion leaders, industry captains, and successful professionals. "They are not seeking patronage. They are self-made Abians who, by God’s grace, need nothing from government except to see good governance sustained," he added.

The group agreed that Otti's performance in education, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, security, transportation, and public service was commendable. "It was unanimous that Abia has never had it so good. The governor does not need extensive campaigns because his work speaks for him," Mkpa said.

They decided to encourage eligible voters to get their Permanent Voter Cards before the 2027 general elections. They also want to help elect candidates from the governor's party into the state and National Assembly.

The group promised to protect the governance model Otti established beyond 2031. They want to make sure future administrations continue the good work.

Robert Onyeani, a businessman and owner of Ahudiyannem Queens Football Club, praised the improved road network in Abia North. He said it has boosted private investment and business activities. "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," Onyeani said.

The host of the meeting, Chief Ebueme Ezikpe, noted that the group intentionally did not include career politicians or those looking for political appointments. "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," he said.

Ezikpe added that the group is united not just in supporting Otti’s re-election but also in backing good candidates who will work with the governor at both state and federal levels.