Otti warns opponents against early 2027 election distractions

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has cautioned political opponents to stop diverting attention from governance with premature discussions about the 2027 elections, stressing that his administration remains focused on delivering development to the state.

The governor gave the warning during a church service on Saturday at the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Umuikaa District Headquarters, in Isialangwa South Local Government Area. The remarks were contained in a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku.

Otti said his government would not be distracted by political noise ahead of the next general election, insisting that fixing Abia State remains his top priority.

“No one or group of people is entitled to distract us. When they make noise, we should not be bothered. We will remain focused and continue to do what is right,” the governor said.

He added that he was unconcerned about the 2027 elections, noting that his emergence as governor in 2023 was divinely ordained and expressing confidence that the future would take care of itself.

“The same way God delivered 2023 is the same way He will deliver 2027,” Otti stated.

Addressing concerns raised by the church over flooding caused by poor drainage, the governor directed the Commissioner for Works to extend ongoing drainage construction to the Umuikaa junction. He also apologised to residents for the dust and inconvenience caused by the Umuikaa junction–Owerrinta road project, explaining that the work was part of a broader development plan.

Otti disclosed that the road, though a federal highway, was being reconstructed and dualised by the state government with approval from the Federal Government. He added that similar projects were ongoing in other parts of the state, including the Onuimo–Tower axis.

“The goal is that once you enter Abia State, you should clearly know you are in Abia,” he said.

The governor assured residents and the church of his administration’s commitment to transparent and honest governance, while appreciating their prayers and support.

In separate remarks, church leaders and members of political support groups, including the Secretary of the Alex Otti Vanguard Movement for Continuity 2027, Fineboy Joseph, commended the governor’s performance, expressing confidence in his re-election based on his achievements. They also renewed their appeal for drainage works around the church and surrounding areas.

The service featured prayers for the governor and the state and was attended by his wife, Priscilla Otti, commissioners, local government officials and other dignitaries.