ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has stated that his decision to seek re-election in 2027 is in the hands of God, emphasizing that divine guidance will determine his political future.
Otti made the statement on Saturday during a grand civic reception and appreciation ceremony organised by the ‘Oha Isiala Ngwa People’ of Isiala Ngwa North and South Local Government Areas.
The event was held in honour of his performance across the state, particularly in the host LGAs.
Amid numerous endorsements and calls for him to run for a second term, the governor remained reserved, pointing to God as the ultimate decider.
“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.
“So, while I appreciate this endorsement, which I see as recognition of what has been achieved so far, I also thank you for your predictions.
“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,” Otti said.
According to Vanguard, he used the occasion to explain that his administration’s significant investment in Aba was a deliberate strategy due to the city’s potential as a catalyst for economic growth in the state.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, stressing that development efforts are being simultaneously implemented across all parts of Abia.
On the controversial siting of the Abia Airport in Nsulu, Otti clarified that the location was selected purely based on technical assessments, not political influence.
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He disclosed that full compensation had been paid to all landowners affected by the project.
“We have paid 100 per cent 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,” he explained.
Describing the airport project, Otti said, “It is an ambitious undertaking, which is more than just an aviation facility; it is a full-fledged development hub aimed at providing long-term economic benefits to the people.”
In separate remarks, various dignitaries applauded the governor’s performance and urged him to seek re-election in 2027. Among them were the lawmaker representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, Okenze Chief Ginger Onwusibe; Senator Darlington Nwokocha; the member representing Isiala Ngwa North State Constituency, Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu; the chairman of the occasion, Mr. Obinna Anaba; another son of the soil, Mr. Cyril Ishmael; and the President of the Ngwa National Association in the USA and Canada, Dr. Ugochukwu Agu.
Otti, who also serves as the leader of the Labour Party in the state, welcomed Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu and his political associates who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Labour Party.
He also received the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Abia, led by their chairman, Eze Job.