Governor Otti's "Write Your WillÔÇØ Remark: Abia Government Clarifies, Says Statement Defends Electoral Integrity and Rule of Law

... Abia Government Explains Context of Governor Alex Otti's Comment, Reaffirms Commitment to Peace, Justice, and Transparent Elections

The Abia State Government has issued a strong clarification regarding the remarks made by Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, during the October edition of his monthly media parley, "Governor Alex Otti Speaks.ÔÇØ

The government said that Governor Otti's statement, advising those who plan to "write election resultsÔÇØ in future elections to "first write their wills,ÔÇØ was not a threat or incitement to violence, but rather a figurative expression reaffirming his administration's firm commitment to electoral integrity and the rule of law.

According to a press statement signed by Prince Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information, the Governor's words were in full alignment with both the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the Electoral Act 2022, which criminalize result manipulation and uphold that sovereignty belongs to the people.

The statement emphasized that Governor Otti's warning was a lawful democratic message to discourage electoral malpractice and ensure that Abia remains a model for credible, transparent, and violence-free elections in Nigeria.

"Governor Otti's statement underscores his administration's zero tolerance for electoral fraud and its commitment to protecting the people's mandate. It was a call to responsibility, not violence,ÔÇØ the release stated.

The government further highlighted that since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Otti has maintained a reputation as a peaceful, law-abiding, and reform-driven leader who prefers institutional solutions over intimidation or arbitrary arrests.

Prince Okey Kanu noted that no individual has been unlawfully detained or politically victimized under Governor Otti's leadership - a reflection of his belief in justice, constitutionalism, and democratic due process.

He urged the public, political stakeholders, and civil society organizations to interpret the Governor's remarks within their rightful legal and constitutional context, noting that Otti's administration is dedicated to dialogue, peace, inclusiveness, and respect for human rights.

The statement concluded by reaffirming that the era of result writing and electoral subversion is over in Abia, as Governor Otti's leadership continues to entrench a new democratic culture founded on transparency, integrity, and accountability.