Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has said that his decision to seek re-election in 2027 will be guided solely by divine direction, just as his emergence in 2023 was.
Speaking on Saturday during a grand civic reception organised by the Oha Isiala Ngwa People of Isiala Ngwa North and South Local Government Areas, the governor expressed gratitude for the massive support and endorsement he received but clarified that his re-election bid remains in God’s hands.
“On the calls for me to run again in 2027, my people will know my position when the time comes. We still have a long way to go. Just as 2023 was in God’s hands, so too will 2027 be,” Otti said.
He appreciated the endorsement as recognition of his administration’s achievements so far, adding, “I will consult with God. At the right time, I will make my decision public. I know my people are expectant.”
Highlighting his administration’s focus on economic revitalisation, Otti explained that the heavy investments in Aba were intentional, given the city’s strategic role as Abia’s commercial hub. He reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive development across all zones of the state.
Addressing concerns over the location of the Abia Airport project in Nsulu, Otti stated that the choice was made strictly on technical grounds and not influenced by political considerations. He disclosed that all affected landowners had received full compensation.
“We have paid 100% compensation to all whose lands were acquired. If there are any pending cases, they are due to issues such as incorrect account details or disputes over ownership,” the governor said.
He described the airport project as more than an aviation facility, but a comprehensive development hub poised to deliver long-term economic benefits for the state.
In their separate remarks, notable stakeholders including the lawmaker representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, Okenze Chief Ginger Onwusibe; Senator Darlington Nwokocha; Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu of the Isiala Ngwa North State Constituency; Mr. Obinna Anaba (Chairman of the occasion); Mr. Cyril Ishmael; and Dr. Ugochukwu Agu, President of the Ngwa National Association in the USA and Canada, commended Governor Otti’s performance and urged him to run for a second term.
The event also saw Governor Otti officially receive Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu and his group, who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the Labour Party. He also welcomed the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers in Abia State, led by Chairman Eze Job, into the Labour Party fold.
ADEOLA KUNLE
