The Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Rev. Fr. Michael Kalu Ukpong, has declared that anyone already campaigning to replace Governor Alex Otti in 2027 is only wasting their time, insisting that the Governor’s performance in just two years has already secured his place in the hearts of Abians.
Bishop Ukpong made the remark on Sunday, August 17, when he hosted Governor Otti to a thanksgiving lunch at the Mater Dei Cathedral, Umuahia, in celebration of the Governor’s impactful two years in office.
The Bishop, visibly impressed, said the Otti administration had accomplished feats he once thought impossible in Abia State.
“There was a time I sent you a text, telling you that for the first time, Abians are proud to be Abians. Those in Aba are testifying to your works, and even the Bishop of Aba has confirmed it. Keep it up,” he said.
He singled out the rehabilitation of the Igwu (Omenuko) Bridge as a remarkable achievement. For decades, he noted, the bridge had been a source of fear for travelers, but today, thanks to Otti’s intervention, the journey is safe and smooth.
Sharing his personal experience, Bishop Ukpong recalled the nightmare of travelling to Arochukwu in 2018 via the Ndi-Oji Road, only to be pleasantly surprised earlier this year when the same journey took just 25 minutes after the road was reconstructed.
“The old saying that there is no easy route to Arochukwu has been destroyed by His Excellency. Whoever is contesting against you in 2027 is wasting their time, because you have already campaigned with your good works,” the Bishop said to loud applause.
He further added that if Nigeria’s constitution permitted a third or fourth term, “with someone like you, we would not complain.”
Responding, Governor Otti expressed gratitude to the Bishop for hosting him and for the massive support from the church, both during the campaigns and in office.
He emphasized that leadership is about service and stewardship, not self-interest, assuring that his administration would continue to deliver people-oriented projects despite the financial challenges inherited.
Otti disclosed that nearly 60% of the debts left by previous governments had already been paid off without resorting to borrowing, stressing that the recently approved $263 million facilities from international development banks would only be accessed when necessary and managed prudently.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu; Deputy Speaker of the Abia House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Austin Okezie Nmerigini; Umuahia Central lawmaker, Hon. Chinasa Anthony Abiola; Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba (Ph.D.); Attorney General, Barr. Ikechukwu Uwanna; Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, and other senior government officials.
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