Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has expressed confidence in the continued support of the Abiriba community, declaring that he has “never been in doubt” about their loyalty despite recent political developments.
Governor Otti stated this, on Sunday, when he received a high-powered delegation of Abiriba indigenes, led by Chief Ebueme Ezeikpe, in his office at Nvosi Isialangwa South LGA.
The Governor who acknowledged reports of a defection by a member of the Abiriba community, maintained that it would not affect the collective support base enjoyed by his administration.
“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”, he said.
Governor Otti commended the people of Abiriba for taking the initiative to construct durable roads through self-help efforts, describing it as encouraging.
The Governor assured that the delegation the State Government would look into their requests for additional road asphalting and provide support where necessary.
He 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 appropriate 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 said.
The Governor also acknowledged the voting challenges posed by the diaspora nature of the Abiriba population but urged continued mobilisation.
Governor Otti who emphasised that ultimate power belongs to God, urged the people to play their part and trust in God’s divine will.
He expressed gratitude to the people of Abiriba for the visit and wished them a happy Easter celebration.
Earlier, the spokesperson of the group, Chief Jackson Agbai, reaffirmed the support of the Abiriba people for the Governor, stressing that the defection of one of their sons did not reflect the position of the community.
Chief Jackson Agbai
“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 disclosed that the community had already commenced grassroots mobilisation efforts ahead of future elections, including voter registration and informal house-to-house campaigns.
Chief Agbai also commended the Governor for ongoing infrastructure projects, particularly the asphalting of the Abiriba Ring Road and appealed for the completion of other roads promised.
On the issue of population and electoral strength, Chief Agbai explained that the Abiriba people have a large population in the diaspora, adding that their strength lies not only in their numbers but in their strong influence and active role in driving commercial activities in Aba.
Also speaking, the Mayor of Ohafia Local Government Area, Chief Eleanya Ojuu Kalu, highlighted efforts made by the community to boost voter registration, revealing that about 5,000 new voters were added through targeted mobilisation.
Chief Kalu further disclosed that Abiriba indigenes in Aba and other cities were actively engaged through coordinated registration initiatives, including the establishment of centres in Aba.
He, however, raised concerns about internal party leadership issues in Abiriba wards, calling for a transparent process in future congresses to ensure effective grassroots mobilisation.
Contributing, a community leader, Chief Agbai Ochunkwo, emphasised the deep-rooted support for Governor Otti among Abiriba people, insisting that the community would ensure his re-election in 2027.
“If we are voting inAba, 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 community remains united and in support of Governor Otti and would work to maintain peace within the party structure to guarantee electoral success in 2027.
