Northern, Yoruba Communities in Aba Back Otti for 2027, State Reasons | SEE PHOTOS

[caption id="attachment_198337" align="alignnone" width="1080"] Northern, Yoruba Communities in Aba Back Otti for 2027, State Reasons | SEE PHOTOS[/caption]

The growing political momentum behind Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has gained fresh traction as the Northern and Yoruba communities resident in Aba, Abia State's commercial nerve centre, have formally endorsed him for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The endorsement was made public on Thursday during a joint courtesy visit to Government House, Umuahia, by leaders of both communities, 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 delegation, Sariki Bello II described Governor Otti's performance since assuming office as exceptional, insisting that the scale of transformation in Aba and across Abia State justifies continuity in leadership beyond 2027.

He noted that as critical stakeholders in Aba's economy, members of the Northern and Yoruba communities experience the impact of governance daily, particularly through the massive reconstruction of internal roads, improved cleanliness, street lighting, and enhanced security that have restored Aba's dignity as a business hub.

According to him, improved infrastructure and security have made markets safer, reduced logistics bottlenecks, and boosted confidence among traders and investors.

"The reward of good work is more work," Sariki Bello II stated, adding that after extensive observation and consultations, the communities reached a collective conclusion that the progress under the New Abia project must not be interrupted.

He announced that the Northern and Yoruba communities in Aba had formally endorsed Governor Otti for re-election in 2027, describing the decision as a deliberate choice for stability, continuity, and sustained excellence in governance.

The Sariki further pledged the loyalty of his people to the laws of Abia State and the Otti administration, assuring that they would continue to act as partners in progress while mobilising support to ensure the gains recorded under the current government are sustained beyond 2027.

Also speaking, the leader of the Northern community in Aba commended the Governor for creating an environment where residents are treated with equal dignity and respect, regardless of ethnic or religious background, describing inclusivity as the foundation of the peace currently enjoyed in the state.

The President of the Yoruba Community in Aba, Pastor Basorun Adedeji, said the changes witnessed in Abia since Governor Otti took office are unparalleled, stressing that the endorsement was not spontaneous but the outcome of deliberate meetings, consultations, and shared confidence in the Governor's leadership.

He described Governor Otti as "a man of the people," noting that his leadership style has resonated across cultural and regional lines.

Responding, Governor Otti reaffirmed his belief in inclusive governance, stressing that his administration does not define citizens by tribe, religion, or place of origin but by their contribution to the state.

He cited the appointment of Mr. Benson Ojiekere from Edo State as Head of Service of Abia State, describing it as a merit-based decision and an unprecedented demonstration of inclusivity in Nigeria's public service.

"As long as you live or do business in Abia State, you are an Abian," the Governor stated, adding that discrimination based on origin has no place in his administration.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Governor Otti highlighted key interventions of the administration across road infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, electricity, and wealth creation, noting that the government came prepared with a clear development blueprint.

He urged residents to partner with the government to sustain development and cautioned against divisive politics driven by ethnicity, religion, or self-interest, describing such tactics as tools of politicians with nothing tangible to offer.

The Governor also encouraged residents, especially those living and doing business in Abia, to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and fully participate in the democratic process, stressing that civic responsibility should align with residency and economic contribution.

"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 senior government officials, including the Mayor of Aba North, Hon. Timothy Iheke; Mayor of Aba South, Hon. Anyanwu Obilor; Mayor of Osisioma, Chief Chidi Agu, and other dignitaries.