NEWS
“I HAVE NEVER BEEN IN DOUBT ABOUT THE SUPPORT OF THE ABIRIBA PEOPLE” — GOV. ALEX OTTI SAYS, REAFFIRMS CONFIDENCE AS COMMUNITY DECLARES TOTAL LOYALTY, SEEKS MORE INFRASTRUCTURAL SUPPORT
The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his strong confidence in the loyalty and continued support of the Abiriba community, declaring that he has “never been in doubt” about their commitment despite recent political developments involving a defection.
The Governor made this known on Sunday when he received a high-powered delegation of Abiriba indigenes, led by Chief Ebueme Ezeikpe, at his office in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
Addressing the delegation, Governor Otti acknowledged reports of the defection of a member of the Abiriba community but emphasized that such a move would not diminish the collective support his administration enjoys from the people.
“I would like to also say that I have never been in doubt about the support of the Abiriba people because my relationship with Abiriba people goes back a very, very long way.
“It is unfortunate that one of us said he was going to another party, like you mentioned but it’s within his right, just like you also added, to be anywhere he wants to be. It will also be difficult for him not to support me, so, I wish him well,” Governor Otti said.
Governor Otti further commended the Abiriba community for their proactive development initiatives, particularly their self-help efforts in constructing durable roads using modern rigid pavement technology. He described the initiative as commendable and a clear demonstration of the community’s commitment to progress.
Reassuring the delegation of government support, the Governor pledged to review their requests for additional road asphalting and provide necessary assistance where feasible. He also directed his Special Adviser on Trade, Commerce and Industry, Chief Nwaka Inem, to compile and forward the relevant details to the Commissioner for Works for prompt action.
“I will look at the request for asphalting of additional roads in Abirba. I thought it was very encouraging that Abiriba sons and daughters are actually building their roads through self-effort and building solid roads with rigid pavement technology.
“So, what we are coming to do would be to support, since the job has been done. So, we’ll look at it,” Governor Otti stated.
The Governor also took note of the voting limitations caused by the widespread diaspora nature of the Abiriba population but encouraged sustained grassroots mobilisation to strengthen their electoral impact.
Reiterating his belief in divine authority over human affairs, Governor Otti reminded the people that ultimate power belongs to God, urging them to remain steadfast in their efforts while trusting in God’s will.
He expressed appreciation to the Abiriba delegation for the visit and extended warm Easter greetings to the entire community.
Earlier in his remarks, the spokesperson of the delegation, Chief Jackson Agbai, reaffirmed the unwavering support of Abiriba people for the Governor, stressing that the action of one individual does not reflect the collective stance of the community.
“We have come here to tell you as Abiriba people that we are with you. Abiriba people are 100% behind you,” Chief Agbai declared.
He further revealed that the community had already intensified grassroots mobilisation in preparation for future elections, including voter registration drives and informal house-to-house campaigns aimed at strengthening their political base.
Chief Agbai also commended Governor Otti for ongoing infrastructural projects, particularly the asphalting of the Abiriba Ring Road, while appealing for the completion of other promised road projects.
On the question of population and electoral strength, he explained that although a significant number of Abiriba indigenes reside in the diaspora, their influence remains substantial due to their active involvement in commerce, especially in Aba.
Also speaking, the Mayor of Ohafia Local Government Area, Chief Eleanya Ojuu Kalu, highlighted deliberate efforts by the community to boost voter registration, revealing that about 5,000 new voters had been added through targeted mobilisation initiatives.
He noted that Abiriba indigenes residing in Aba and other urban centres were actively engaged through coordinated registration efforts, including the establishment of dedicated centres in Aba.
However, Chief Kalu raised concerns over internal party leadership challenges within Abiriba wards, calling for transparency and fairness in future congresses to ensure stronger grassroots cohesion and effectiveness.
In his contribution, a prominent community leader, Chief Agbai Ochunkwo, underscored the depth of support for Governor Otti across the Abiriba community, expressing confidence in his re-election prospects come 2027.
“If we are voting in Aba, we are voting for Alex Otti, if we’re voting in Abiriba we are voting for Alex Otti.
“The Abiriba community in diaspora, in Abia State, everywhere is behind Dr. Alex Otti. You are the face of this government,” Chief Ochunkwo stated.
He added that the Abiriba community remains united and committed to sustaining peace within the party structure, positioning itself for a decisive e
lectoral outing in the 2027 general elections.