Northern, Yoruba Communities in Aba Endorse Gov. Otti for Second Term

The Northern and Yoruba communities in Aba, the commercial centre of Abia State, have formally endorsed Governor Alex Otti for a second term in office.

The endorsement was announced on Thursday during a joint visit to Government House, Umuahia, by a delegation led by the Sariki of Aba, His Royal Highness Sariki Shehu Bello II, and the President of the Yoruba Community in Aba, Pastor Basorun Adedeji.

Speaking on behalf of the two communities, Sariki Shehu Bello II praised Governor Otti’s performance, describing it as exceptional and deserving of continuity beyond 2027.

“Your Excellency, as stakeholders in the economic engine of this state, we witness your hard work daily, from the massive reconstruction of internal roads in Aba to the restoration of the city’s dignity through improved cleanliness and street lighting,” he said.

He noted that the administration has transformed Aba into a city where residents and investors can once again do business with pride, adding that improved infrastructure and security have made markets safer and logistics more efficient.

Sariki Bello II stated that after careful observation and consultations, the communities concluded that the ongoing development in Abia should not be interrupted.

“On behalf of the Northern and Yoruba communities in Aba, we formally declare our full support for your vision beyond the current tenure. We hereby endorse Your Excellency for the 2027 election in the interest of stability and the continuation of the excellence you have introduced in governance,” he said.

He further assured the Governor of the communities’ readiness to mobilise support to ensure the sustainability of the current administration’s achievements, pledging loyalty to the state government and continued partnership in progress.

The leader of the Northern community also commended Governor Otti for fostering an inclusive environment where Abians by residence are treated with equal dignity and respect as Abians by birth, describing such inclusivity as the foundation of the peace currently enjoyed in the state.

Also speaking, the President of the Yoruba Community in Aba, Pastor Basorun Adedeji, said the changes witnessed in Abia since Governor Otti assumed office are unprecedented. He expressed deep appreciation for the administration’s achievements, noting that the endorsement followed extensive consultations and a shared confidence in the Governor’s leadership and vision.

“Our endorsement did not come overnight. It followed a series of meetings and consultations. We have endorsed Dr. Alex Otti, a true man of the people,” Pastor Adedeji said.

In his response, Governor Alex Otti reaffirmed his belief in inclusive governance that transcends ethnic and religious boundaries, stressing that everyone who lives or does business in Abia is regarded as an Abian. He cited the appointment of the Head of Service of Abia State, Mr. Benson Ojiekere, an indigene of Edo State, as evidence of merit-based governance, an achievement he described as unprecedented in Nigeria.

“As long as you live or do business in Abia State, you are seen as an Abian. This is unlike what obtains in some other states where people are discriminated against based on their origin,” the Governor said.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Governor Otti highlighted the administration’s commitment to excellence and performance, listing key intervention areas such as road infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, power supply, and wealth creation.

He urged residents to continue partnering with the government to sustain development, noting that the administration came well-prepared and determined to deliver meaningful progress.

The Governor also advised residents, especially those who live and do business in Abia, to actively participate in the democratic process by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and exercising their civic rights in the state.

“If Abia is where you live, where you do business, and where you raise your family, then this is your home and where your vote should count,” he said.

The meeting was attended by top government officials, including the mayors of Aba North, Hon. Timothy Iheke; Aba South, Hon. Anyanwu Obilor; and Osisioma, Chief Chidi Agu, among other dignitaries.