Anyaso Declares For Bende Reps As Former Councillors Endorse Him, Back Otti

The political permutations ahead of the 2027 general elections have begun in Abia State as former elected councillors across the state have endorsed businessman and philanthropist, Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, as their consensus candidate for the Bende Federal House of Representatives seat.

The endorsement took place in Igbere, Bende Local Government Area, where the former councillors met with Anyaso and openly declared their support for his aspiration, while also reaffirming their commitment to the re-election of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, in 2027.,

Speaking on behalf of the group, the State Coordinator and leader of the former councillors, Hon. Tony Agbayim, described Anyaso, popularly known as "Ofuji,ÔÇØ as a man who has consistently supported communities and individuals across Abia State even without holding public office.

According to him, the former councillors, many of whom served between 1999 and 2002, carefully reviewed the political situation in Bende Federal Constituency and unanimously agreed to support Anyaso based on his track record in philanthropy, community development, and grassroots support.

He stated that the group believes Anyaso would make a greater impact if given the opportunity to represent Bende Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.

"We are with you one hundred percent. We will campaign and ensure your victory in the 2027 election,ÔÇØ Agbayim said.

The former councillors also used the opportunity to commend Governor Alex Otti for what they described as good governance and visible development across Abia State, noting that his administration has restored hope among the people.

They further pledged to mobilize political support across communities to ensure both Anyaso's victory in the National Assembly election and Governor Otti's re-election in 2027.

"We will deploy everything within our capacity to ensure Anyaso goes to Abuja and Governor Otti returns to Government House in 2027,ÔÇØ the group stated.

Responding, Anyaso expressed appreciation to the former councillors for the endorsement and confidence reposed in him, noting that he does not take their support for granted.

He praised Governor Otti's leadership style and developmental strides, stating that Abia State has witnessed significant progress in infrastructure, governance, and public sector reforms within a short period.

Anyaso also commended the governor for clearing outstanding arrears owed to former elected councillors, many of whom had waited for years to receive their entitlements. He expressed regret over the hardship some of them faced under past administrations, including those who reportedly lost their lives while waiting for their benefits.

According to him, the progress recorded in Abia State in less than three years is unprecedented since the creation of the state in 1991.

He formally declared his intention to contest the Bende Federal Constituency seat in 2027, stating that the time has come for him to serve his people at a higher level.

"I respected the principle of equity in 2023 and did not contest, but in 2027, we are ready and equipped to represent our people at the National Assembly,ÔÇØ he said.

Anyaso also called for stronger collaboration among pro-government political support groups to ensure the re-election of Governor Otti, stressing that continuity is important for the ongoing reforms and development in the state.

The motion to adopt Anyaso as the consensus candidate was moved by the Coordinator of Former Councillors in Bende LGA, Hon. Godwin Uchenna Ndom, and seconded by Hon. Prince Kanu, after which it was unanimously adopted by the group.

The former councillors also reaffirmed Governor Alex Otti as their sole candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Abia State, signaling early political alignment ahead of the elections.

Political observers say the endorsement may significantly shape the political landscape in Bende Federal Constituency as the 2027 elections approach.