NEWS
“THE ONLY WAY TO ENSURE THAT THE GOOD THING HAPPENING IN OUR STATE CONTINUES IS THAT, ALL OF YOU MUST SPEAK WITH YOUR VOTES” — Gov. Alex Otti Urges Massive Voter Registration as 2027 Elections Approach, Rallies Church Leaders in Aba to Drive Civic Participation
The Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has called on Church leaders across the State to mobilize their congregations to actively participate in the ongoing voters’ card registration exercise being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stressing the critical role of civic responsibility in sustaining the State’s developmental strides.
The Governor made this appeal on Sunday, March 29, 2026, during the 28th anniversary of the Zam Jehovah Nights programme held at the Assemblies of God Church, 123 Tenant Road, Aba. The annual programme, themed “Breaking Barriers,” drew thousands of worshippers from within and outside the country.
Addressing the congregation, Governor Otti emphasized that with another general election approaching, Christians must not distance themselves from the political process, noting that active participation remains the surest way to consolidate the progress recorded in Abia State.
“You know, I’m a Levite, I’m a Son of a pastor. So, in the past, my father used to preach that, you know politics, stay away from it.
“But they forgot that part of the Bible that says that power belongs to God. So, if the believers, the Christians, those who should actually take authority, shy away, what will happen?
“Those who don’t believe will take the centre stage. So, if you have not registered, please, ensure you register.
“The opportunity to do that is now. So, Pastor, please help me. Let our people register.
“There are so many people in Aba that I know are not registered. There are some of them that even though they are registered, on election day, they will not come out.
“The only way to ensure that the good thing happening in our State continues is that, all of you must speak with your votes,“ Governor Otti stated.
The Governor congratulated the Church on the successful celebration of its 28th anniversary and expressed appreciation for the unwavering spiritual support extended to him and his administration. He also acknowledged the symbolic gift of a sculptured white horse presented to him by the Church.
In his remarks, the Senior Pastor of the Church, Rev. Dr. Ogboso Ejindu, highlighted the significance of the Zam Jehovah Nights programme, describing it as a long-standing spiritual gathering that has, for 28 years, united believers in fervent worship and intercession.
Speaking on the theme “Breaking Barriers,” Rev. Ejindu commended Governor Otti’s leadership style, portraying him as a transformative figure committed to dismantling long-standing challenges that had hindered the State’s growth. He noted that despite criticisms, the Governor’s efforts across various sectors have been widely acknowledged and appreciated by the people.
“We are not here to make a speech. What you (Gov. Otti) is doing speaks for itself. We are simply here, inviting you to tell you, thank you, thank you, and thank you.
“Even though we have been praying for you before you came in, we will continue praying for you.
“Our theme this year is Breaking Barriers. God sent us a Governor. A large-hearted Governor, a godly Governor, a people-orientated Governor, a consistent Governor, a hard-working Governor, who came in and began to break barriers, barriers, that have lasted for decades.
“Critics said, you came in, and only what you can do is to paint and repaint. My Governor, there are more than 7,000 persons that have gathered and we are begging you. This painting we like it,“ Rev. Ejindu stated.
The cleric further explained that the sculptured white horse presented to the Governor symbolizes strength, glory, consistency, and excellence, while also leading the congregation in prayers for the continued success of the administration and the peace and progress of Abia State.
The event was attended by top government officials, including the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ihuoma Emeruwa; the member representing Aba Central State Constituency, Hon. Ucheonye Akachukwu Stephen; the Mayor of Aba North LGA, Hon. Timothy Iheke; and the Mayor of Aba South LGA, Hon. Obialor Anyanwu, alo
ngside other senior appointees.