We Are Building to Last – Otti Reaffirms Commitment to Quality Governance as Traditional Rulers Dismiss 2027 Opposition Threat

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to delivering durable infrastructure and quality governance, stressing that leadership must be driven by service and stewardship.

The governor made this statement on Sunday, January 11, while receiving members of the Traditional Rulers Friends of His Excellency, a group of royal fathers from across the state who have supported his “Abia First” vision since 2014, at his residence.

Reflecting on their long political journey, Governor Otti recalled the trials, setbacks and sacrifices that marked their struggle for change in Abia State.

> “We started this journey together in 2014. We know what we went through, but all is well that ends well. In 2023, the story changed because we remained resilient, consistent and focused,” he said.



The governor thanked the royal fathers for their loyalty and courage, noting that many of them were victimised during the struggle, with some suspended, dethroned, or even losing their lives for standing by the cause.

Reaffirming his philosophy of governance, Governor Otti said his administration remains firmly rooted in service to the people.

> “This is a government that came to serve. Once governance turns from stewardship to lordship, then anything can happen. We are here to serve our people,” he declared.



He explained that his government prioritised clearing pension, salary and gratuity arrears before embarking on major capital projects, adding that even the renovation of the Government House was delayed to allow resources to be channeled into more pressing needs.

> “We are still here in my private residence because rebuilding the Government House was not our priority. When we found a little room, we started it, and very soon it will be completed into a modern and befitting facility,” he said.



Governor Otti stressed that his administration is committed to quality and sustainability in all projects.

> “Anything we are building, we are building to last. Whether roads, schools or hospitals, we will either do it right or not do it at all. Low-quality jobs have no place in this government,” he added.



He noted that although his government is just two years and seven months old, the strong support from the people has positioned it to do even more in the coming years.

While acknowledging that it is impossible to satisfy everyone, the governor said what truly matters is the satisfaction of the majority.

> “You cannot please everybody because people have different interests. But when 90 to 95 per cent of the people are happy, then you can assume the people are satisfied,” he said.



Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, the leader of the delegation and First Deputy Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Majesty Eze Nelson Nmerengwa, alongside His Royal Highness Eze Franklin Nwosu, praised Governor Otti for his visible and impactful achievements across the state.

They described Abia as Nigeria’s new benchmark for good governance, noting that the state has replaced former reference points such as Lagos and Akwa Ibom.

The royal fathers dismissed opposition criticism ahead of the 2027 elections, insisting that Governor Otti’s re-election is already assured.

> “We are not worried about 2027; it is already settled. Our concern is who will succeed you in 2031 so Abia will not return to the era of stagnation and underdevelopment,” Eze Nmerengwa said.



They commended the governor for assembling a competent and professional team, describing him as a leader with a strong sense of quality and excellence.

The monarchs reaffirmed their loyalty to Governor Otti, pledging continued support and offering prayers for his family, administration and the people of Abia State.

The governor was joined by the Member representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, and his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, PhD, in receiving the delegation.