Governor Alex Otti has received a major political boost ahead of the 2027 governorship election following a strong endorsement from Imo indigenes residing in Abia State, who pledged their full support for his second-term bid while commending his administration’s achievements across the state.
The endorsement was made during a grand civic reception organized by Ndị Imo in Abia on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the pavilion of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic in Aba. The event was held in honour of Governor Otti and the First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, attracting government officials, political stakeholders, community leaders, and members of the Imo community in Abia.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, emphasizing that every resident of Abia deserves equal opportunities regardless of their state of origin.
According to the governor, his government remains focused on delivering projects and policies that improve the lives of all residents, stressing that the concept of discrimination based on state of origin has no place in his administration.
Otti thanked the Imo community for recognizing his government’s achievements, describing the progress recorded over the past three years as only the beginning of a broader development agenda for the state.
He assured the audience that even greater accomplishments lie ahead, expressing confidence that Abia’s transformation would continue over the coming years through sustained investment in infrastructure, economic growth, education, healthcare, transportation, environmental sanitation, security, and other critical sectors.
The governor also responded to concerns regarding workers who were disengaged between 2011 and 2012. He disclosed that his administration had already directed the settlement of affected workers through the payment of their entitlements, particularly for those who may no longer be eligible to return to active service due to age.
He explained that the verification process would ensure qualified beneficiaries receive their outstanding entitlements, reiterating that the directive applies to all eligible persons irrespective of their ethnic background or state of origin.
Governor Otti further appreciated the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, for identifying with the event through his representative, the Special Adviser on Political Matters, Chief Perry Opara. He assured the Imo State Government that Imo indigenes living in Abia enjoy safety, equal treatment, and are regarded as integral members of the state.
Representing Governor Uzodinma, Chief Perry Opara applauded the cordial relationship between the two neighbouring states. He noted that the impressive turnout at the reception reflected the satisfaction of Imo residents with Governor Otti’s leadership and encouraged them to continue promoting peace and unity.
Several community leaders and political figures also used the occasion to publicly endorse Governor Otti for another term in office.
Among them were Chairman of the occasion, Chief Chibuike Achigbu; Chairman of the Steering Committee, Chief MacDonald; Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ndị Imo in Abia, Chief Boniface Mbachu, represented by Chief James Odocha; National President of South East Town Unions, Chief Emeka Diwe; and the Abia South Zonal Women Leader of the Labour Party, Mrs. Lilian Ezenobi.
The speakers praised Governor Otti’s transformational leadership, highlighting his administration’s achievements in road infrastructure, flood control, environmental sanitation, improved security, prompt payment of salaries and pensions, education reforms, healthcare improvements, transportation, and power development.
They also acknowledged the contributions of the First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, describing her as a proud daughter of Imo State whose encouragement and support have complemented the governor’s leadership.
Speaking on behalf of transport workers, the Abia State Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and Founder of the Local Boys Movement, Comrade Chukwuma Azode, described Governor Otti as one of the state’s finest leaders in recent history.
He noted that the overwhelming support shown by Imo indigenes demonstrated widespread appreciation for the governor’s performance, adding that the long-standing cultural and historical ties between Abia and Imo make both states one united family regardless of political differences.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Chief G.C. Duru, an Imo indigene serving as Commissioner in the Local Government Service Commission, reaffirmed the commitment of Imo residents in Abia to support Governor Otti’s re-election while expressing confidence in the continued progress of the state under his leadership.
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The event concluded with the governor receiving enthusiastic endorsements from attendees, reinforcing growing support for his administration’s inclusive governance and development agenda as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 governorship election.
