Abia Pensioners to Otti: No Need for 2027 Campaigns, Your Record Speaks

Pensioners in Abia State, operating under the aegis of Concerned Abia Pensioners, have urged Governor Alex Otti not to waste public funds on political campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections, insisting that his performance in office has already earned him the people’s support.

The pensioners made this known on Thursday during their biweekly meeting at the Sub-Treasury premises in Umuahia. They said Governor Otti’s achievements within the first two years of his administration were more than sufficient to guarantee his re-election, describing any campaign efforts as unnecessary.

They assured the governor of their continued support and commitment to ensuring his return to office, adding that any attempt by opposition parties to rig him out would be futile.

While commending the governor, the pensioners reminded him of his promise to settle their outstanding gratuities and expressed confidence that he would fulfill the pledge. They also appealed to him to intervene by urging the outgoing executive of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) in the state to reopen the union’s office, which has remained locked for a long period, forcing pensioners to hold meetings in open spaces.

Speaking separately at the meeting, the Chairman of the group, Elder John Kalu; the Coordinator, Chief Emeka Okezie; Elder Ochu I. Ochu; and Mrs Agbaraevo Rosetta Iheanyichi praised Governor Otti’s performance, recalling the hardship pensioners endured under previous administrations. They noted that the current government pays pensions consistently on the 28th of every month.

Chief Emeka Okezie warned opposition elements allegedly planning to undermine the government through electronic party registration to desist, stressing that such moves would be rejected by the people.

“We are the supporters of this government. We are solidly behind him,” Okezie said. “The governor should not waste money on campaigns. He has done more than expected in less than three years. Personally, I have not seen a government like this before. I am confident that our gratuities will soon be paid. You will be getting your alerts.”

Also speaking, a former Permanent Secretary, Elder Ochu I. Ochu, reaffirmed the pensioners’ unwavering support for the governor, expressing optimism that he would fulfill all promises made to them. He prayed that God would provide the necessary resources to enable the government clear the outstanding gratuity arrears.

The meeting ended with prayers offered by the pensioners for Governor Otti, the Abia State Government, and members of the governor’s team.