Governor Otti to Detractors: "Your Blackmail Won't Work, We're Building a New Abia"

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has taken a firm stand against corrupt politicians and detractors, declaring that he will not negotiate with those who contributed to the state's past failures. The governor, who spoke during two separate church services on Sunday, February 23, at The Master's Vessel Church and Power World Ministry Int'l, both in Umuahia, emphasized that his administration would uphold integrity and reject any attempts at blackmail or manipulation by political actors seeking relevance.

Governor Otti made it clear that his government will not entertain individuals who failed in their bid to be part of his administration and are now resorting to spreading falsehoods. Quoting from the Bible, he stated, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach." He reiterated that while he does not claim to be perfect, his administration will always strive to do what is right.

"Darkness and Light Have No Meeting Point"

The Governor exposed how some individuals initially lobbied for positions in his administration but, upon rejection, resorted to media attacks and blackmail, hoping to force him into negotiations. "They started by applying - 'you need us to run a government' - and we politely declined, because darkness and daylight have no meeting points. The next thing they did was start attacking us in the media, thinking we would call them for negotiations. But we will never negotiate with criminals," Otti affirmed to a cheering congregation.

He emphasized that his administration's focus is to rebuild Abia, restore its dignity, and create an enabling environment for residents. He reminded Abians of their legacy of hard work and self-reliance, urging them to embrace the positive changes his government is implementing.

Otti Declares State of Emergency in Education Sector

Governor Otti also addressed the overwhelming surge in student enrollment following the state's abolition of school fees for primary and secondary education. He noted that the influx has put immense pressure on the existing infrastructure, prompting his administration to declare an emergency in the education sector. Contracts have been awarded for the renovation and upgrade of 221 public schools across all 184 wards in the state.

"From the beginning of this year, we abolished school fees. If your child is in any school in Abia, primary or secondary, you will pay zero naira. In the next few months, we will complete the fixing and upgrading of 221 schools, many of which are in a terrible state of disrepair," he announced, sparking loud applause from worshippers.

Otti Grants Land Reallocation to Church, Calls for Prayers

The Governor also addressed the case of Master's Vessel Church, which was shortchanged by the previous administration after being allocated land for a parsonage. Otti approved the reallocation of land to the church and assured them of his administration's commitment to fairness and justice.

He thanked the church for their prayers and continuous support, stressing that divine guidance is crucial to governance. "The prayers of the church do a greater part of the job because when God is with you, it is difficult to do the wrong thing," he noted.

Rev. Umah Ukpai Commends Otti's Leadership

Renowned cleric, Rev. Dr. Umah Ukpai, hailed Governor Otti's performance, describing his leadership as "amazingly well." He assured the congregation that he prays daily for the Governor and expressed optimism that Otti's administration will achieve even greater heights.

Both churches fervently prayed for the Governor, his administration, and the state, seeking divine wisdom, guidance, and provision.

Governor Otti was accompanied to the church service by top government officials, including the Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Austin Okezie Mmeregini, Umuahia South State Constituency representative, Hon. Emeka Obioma, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, and Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu.