Abia State Governor Alex Otti has indicated that his decision on seeking re-election in 2027 will be guided by divine intervention, as communities across the state intensify calls for his return to office.
The Labour Party governor made this declaration during a civic reception organized by the Oha Isiala Ngwa People, representing both Isiala Ngwa North and South Local Government Areas, who gathered to celebrate his administration’s achievements and formally endorse his candidacy for a second term.
Speaking to the enthusiastic crowd on Saturday, Otti emphasized that just as his 2023 electoral victory was in God’s hands, so too would be any future political endeavors. “Regarding the call to run in 2027, people will know my stance then. We still have a long way to go. Just as 2023 was in the hands of God, so too will 2027 be,” the governor stated.
While expressing gratitude for the community’s endorsement, Otti maintained that he would seek divine guidance before making any formal announcement about his political future. “I can only say that I will consult with God. As time goes on, my response will be made public. Because, as I said the other day, I know my people are waiting,” he added.
The governor used the platform to defend his administration’s focus on Aba’s development, explaining that the commercial hub’s strategic importance makes it crucial for the state’s overall economic growth. He stressed his commitment to inclusive governance, noting that his administration has actively engaged all regions of Abia State rather than favoring particular areas.
Addressing concerns about the controversial Abia Airport project, Otti insisted that the decision to locate the facility in Nsulu was based purely on technical considerations without political interference. He revealed that his administration has provided full compensation to all affected landowners, dismissing claims of unpaid compensation as issues related to incorrect banking details or disputed land ownership.
“We have paid 100% compensation to everyone whose land was affected. If anyone has not been paid, it is not our fault. Perhaps they provided incorrect account details, or there are multiple claimants for the same land,” Otti explained.
The governor described the airport project as more than just an aviation facility, positioning it as a comprehensive economic development hub that would provide lasting benefits to surrounding communities.
Several prominent political figures attended the event to voice their support for Otti’s potential re-election bid. Federal lawmaker Okenze Chief Ginger Onwusibe, who represents Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, and State Assembly member Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu all endorsed the governor’s continued leadership.
The event also witnessed political realignments as Otti welcomed Collins Iheonunekwu and his supporters who recently defected from the Peoples’ Democratic Party to join his Labour Party. Additionally, the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, led by Chairman Eze Job, pledged their allegiance to the governor’s administration.
International support for Otti’s potential second term came from diaspora communities, with Dr. Ugochukwu Agu, President of the Ngwa National Association in the USA and Canada, adding his voice to calls for the governor’s re-election in 2027.
The civic reception underscored growing momentum behind Otti’s leadership, with various stakeholders praising his administration’s performance since taking office. However, the governor’s insistence on seeking divine guidance before making any electoral commitments suggests he remains focused on governance rather than political campaigning as his first term continues.
