By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
Abia State’s opposition group has significantly reduced ahead of the 2027 elections, with several prominent figures from different parties joining the ruling Labour Party (LP).
Governor Alex Otti’s administration has been gaining momentum, particularly with his recent approval of an independent power plant project at Abia State University Uturu (ABSU).
The project aims to resolve the long-standing power issues in the campus and surrounding Uturu communities. This development comes as a welcome relief to the residents, who have had to endure years of darkness. Governor Otti explained, “As part of the rehabilitation of Abia State University, I have approved that an independent power plant project be set up in Abia State University. The independent power plant project would generate not less than 10 megawatts of electricity. So, the idea is that not just Abia State University will be served, Uturu town would also have power from the initiative.”
The mass defection to the LP includes notable figures such as Lucky Johnson, the incumbent member representing Isuikwuato state constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly; Chukwudi Ogele, his predecessor; Onyekwere Akim Uche (OAU), the 2023 governorship candidate of the Action Alliance (AA); Henry Agbaeze, a former Commissioner for Sports; and Emma Ibegbulam, among others. These individuals stated Governor Otti’s remarkable achievements and his commitment to transforming Abia State as reasons for their decision.
During a reception at Isuikwuato High School, Otankpa, Governor Otti welcomed the newcomers, stating, “Abia would witness more developments in the months ahead, declaring that his coming on board was to deliver good governance to the people.” He assured Abians of his dedication to turning Abia into a model state, saying, “The era of using Abia as an example of a backward state is gone.”
Other developments announced by the Governor include the construction of the Amibo-Acha road and the Eziama-Ndundu Road, which will soon be flagged off. Hon. Amobi Ogah, the member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, praised Governor Otti’s developmental strides and pledged continued support.
The Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, described Governor Otti as a visionary leader and urged Abians to support him for a second term. Johnson, the member representing Isuikwuato State Constituency, said, “Governor Otti had made Abians proud through his achievements.” He expressed confidence that Isuikwuato would play a significant role in the 2027 governorship election in favor of Governor Otti.
Various stakeholders, including Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General Ikechukwu Uwanna, Mayor of Isuikwuato Chinedu Ekeke, and others, commended Governor Otti’s achievements in areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and payment of workers’ salaries and pensions. Dr. Onyinyechi Rufus-Obi, a member of the Greater Ohafia Development Authority (GODA), thanked Governor Otti for the independent power project, describing him as a hardworking and progressive leader.
Stakeholders from Isuikwuato, including Mr. Ken Ahia (SAN), Chief Chidiebere Uguru, and Dr. Chidi Mba, openly supported Governor Otti’s re-election bid in 2027, stating his capacity and achievements that have surpassed those of past governors.
