NEWS
CKC CHRISM MASS: “WE WILL EVEN INCREASE THE TEMPO AS WE GO INTO THE FOURTH YEAR, YOU AIN’T SEEN NOTHING YET” — Gov. Alex Otti Ramps Up Governance Drive, Warns Against Planned Opposition Protest in Aba
The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to accelerate the pace of governance as it approaches its fourth year in office, declaring a renewed push to deliver tangible and people-oriented results across the state, even as he raised concerns over a planned protest allegedly being orchestrated by opposition elements in Aba.
The Governor made this known on Thursday, April 2, 2026, while attending the Chrism Mass at Christ the King Church (CKC), Aba, where he combined a message of development optimism with a firm warning against actions capable of disrupting public peace.
Setting the tone for what he described as a more aggressive phase of governance, Governor Otti pointed to ongoing and near-completed projects as clear indicators of his administration’s commitment to transforming the state. Among such projects is the CKC water scheme, which he disclosed is nearing completion and expected to significantly improve access to potable water for residents.
He revealed that the project is currently about “80–90 per cent completed” and assured that it would soon begin supplying water to households, reinforcing his administration’s focus on basic infrastructure and urban renewal.
“We will even increase the tempo as we go into the fourth year. You ain’t seen nothing yet. We still have a lot to do.
“By next month, I’ll complete the CKC water project and water will start running. I want you to open your tap in your kitchen, and water will be running,“ Governor Otti said.
Beyond infrastructure, Governor Otti used the platform to stress the importance of civic responsibility and democratic participation, calling on eligible residents, particularly youths who have attained the age of 18, to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in preparation for future elections.
However, the Governor’s address took a serious turn as he issued a stern warning regarding intelligence reports of a planned protest in Aba.
According to him, the protest is allegedly being sponsored by a small group of individuals seeking to incite unrest and create instability within the state.
He disclosed that security intelligence indicated that organisers had already prepared placards and were mobilising individuals, including outsiders, with the aim of staging a demonstration designed to provoke conflict and possibly trigger violence.
Governor Otti cautioned residents against participating in such activities, emphasizing that while his administration remains committed to upholding democratic freedoms and lawful conduct, it would not tolerate any attempt to breach public order or endanger lives and property.
“Let us warn everybody. If anyone tries that, he may end up somewhere he did not plan to,” he cautioned.
The Governor reiterated that safeguarding peace and stability remains a top priority of his administration, noting that development can only thrive in an environment free of chaos and disruption.
In a moment of appreciation, Governor Otti expressed deep gratitude for the endorsement he received from the Catholic Bishop of Aba Diocese, His Lordship, Most Rev. Prof. Augustine Echema, during the Chrism Mass, describing the gesture as both unexpected and profoundly meaningful.
He commended the Church for its consistent spiritual guidance and moral support, while also praising the clergy, particularly priests who renewed their vows for their dedication to service and faith.
Governor Otti assured the congregation that his administration would continue to justify the confidence reposed in it by the people and institutions across the state.
Earlier in his remarks, Bishop Augustine Echema had openly endorsed Governor Otti for the 2027 general elections, expressing strong confidence in his leadership and the visible impact of his administration.
The Bishop highlighted several achievements of the current government, including improvements in infrastructure at Abia State University, rehabilitation of road networks, enhanced security, urban renewal efforts in Aba, and the restoration of public trust in governance.
He emphasized that good governance is rooted in service to the people and commended the Governor’s accessibility, inclusive approach to worship across denominations, and commitment to peace and development.
The cleric further urged Governor Otti to sustain the current momentum, ensure the completion of ongoing projects, and deepen collaboration between the Church and the State to achieve greater societal transformation.
The Governor was accompanied to the event by his wife, Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti; the Mayor of Aba North, Hon. Timothy Kalu Iheke; the Mayor of Aba South, Hon. Obialor Anyanwu, alongside other top
government officials and appointees.