Abiriba Community Declares Support for Gov. Otti, Vows Strong Mobilisation for 2027

The people of Abiriba in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State have pledged their full support for Governor Alex Otti ahead of the 2027 general elections, promising widespread mobilisation to secure his re-election.

This assurance was given during a solidarity visit to the governor on Easter Sunday, April 6, 2026, by a delegation of Abiriba stakeholders and community leaders led by Chief Leslie Ebueme Ezikpe.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Chief Jackson Agbai Abba praised Governor Otti’s performance, particularly in infrastructure development across the state. He reaffirmed that the Abiriba community remains united in its backing of the governor, noting that recent political moves by an individual from the area do not reflect the collective position of the people.

He said the community had already begun extensive mobilisation efforts, including voter registration drives in Abiriba, Aba, Umuahia, Port Harcourt, and Enugu, as well as online party registration among members in the diaspora. According to him, sensitisation campaigns are ongoing in homes, churches, and markets to ensure strong voter turnout.

Agbai also commended the completion of the Abiriba Ring Road project and appealed for the extension of asphalt work to roads earlier constructed by the community through self-help initiatives.

The Mayor of Ohafia LGA, Chief Eleanya Ojuu Kalu, disclosed that over 5,000 new voters had been registered in Abiriba through coordinated grassroots and diaspora-driven efforts. He noted that the exercise covered rural settlements, markets, schools, and key urban centres.

In the same vein, Chief James Agbagha Ochunkwo described the visit as a demonstration of unity and shared political vision between Abiriba people and the Otti administration. He emphasised the strong support of youths and professionals, both at home and abroad, for the governor.

Responding, Governor Otti expressed gratitude for the visit, describing it as a significant Easter gesture. He acknowledged the longstanding relationship between his administration and the Abiriba community, as well as their contributions to the state’s development.

The governor noted that while individuals may pursue personal political ambitions, such actions do not affect the broader relationship with the community. He assured the delegation that their requests, particularly regarding road infrastructure, would be considered, adding that the state would support ongoing community-led projects with asphalt overlay.

He also encouraged citizens to take advantage of the ongoing continuous voter registration and urged those living outside the state to return home to participate in elections.

The meeting was attended by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Trade and Commerce, Chief Nwaka Inem, alongside other prominent indigenes of Abiriba.