Abia State Governor, Alex Otti has stated that his administration will respond to political opposition through increased development and service to the people, emphasizing that governance not political rivalry remains his top priority.
The governor made the remarks on Saturday, March 14, during a grand civic reception held at Annunco Secondary School in Isiukwuato Local Government Area. The event was organized by the council to honor the Abia State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna, following his recent elevation to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
Speaking at the event, Otti expressed gratitude to God for Uwanna’s elevation, describing the senior lawyer as a key pillar of his administration. According to the governor, the recognition of Uwanna by the legal profession further validated the government’s earlier decision to appoint him as Attorney-General.
Otti noted that Uwanna has consistently demonstrated dedication and commitment to the administration’s goals, often contributing beyond his official responsibilities. He praised the people of Isiukwuato for producing a professional whose expertise continues to add value to governance in the state.
The governor also acknowledged the remarks made by Abia-born industrialist and former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Uche Ogah, who publicly commended the administration’s achievements during the ceremony.
Otti criticized what he described as a trend among some political actors who refuse to acknowledge visible development projects simply because they come from a government outside their political party. He stressed that after elections, governance should take precedence over partisan interests.
According to him, it is dishonest for anyone to deny completed projects or attribute them to others for political reasons. Rather than engage in arguments, the governor said his administration will continue focusing on delivering tangible results for the people of Abia.
He added that the current administration represents a new era where the citizens of Abia are fully involved in governance and development, stressing that the government belongs to the people.
Earlier in his goodwill message, Ogah congratulated Uwanna on attaining the SAN rank and thanked Governor Otti for appointing him as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.
The prominent businessman used the occasion to openly commend Otti’s governance style, describing the administration as people-centered and impactful. He also reaffirmed his support for the governor ahead of the 2027 elections.
Ogah stated that his endorsement is based on the visible changes taking place across the state. According to him, genuine progress should be acknowledged regardless of political affiliation.
While noting that he remains a member of the All Progressives Congress, Ogah said he would support Otti’s leadership because he believes it is beneficial for the people of Abia. He also reiterated his support for Nigeria’s president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The former minister added that improvements in salary payments and pension disbursements have significantly reduced the number of financial assistance requests he previously received from residents of the state.
In his remarks, Uwanna thanked the people of Isiukwuato for organizing the reception in recognition of his professional achievement. He also expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for the opportunity to serve in his administration.
The Attorney-General highlighted the government’s focus on education, noting that access to quality education played a critical role in his own success. He praised the administration’s decision to introduce free education in Abia and emphasized its long-term impact on the state’s development.
Uwanna also acknowledged ongoing reforms in the education sector, including the renovation of schools, recruitment of teachers, and improvements to the welfare of educators. He particularly commended the construction of a modern law faculty at Abia State University, describing it as a major milestone for legal education in the state.
Other dignitaries who spoke at the event included the lawmaker representing Isiukwuato and Umunneochi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Amobi Ogah, as well as legal practitioner Ken Ahia, both of whom congratulated Uwanna and expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for appointing him to the key legal position.
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The ceremony attracted prominent figures from the political, legal, and business communities, highlighting the significance of Uwanna’s elevation and the growing political momentum around Otti’s administration in Abia State.