Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, says his decision to contest the 2027 governorship election will only come after he consults with God, despite growing support and calls for a second term.
Speaking during a ceremony at the Sam Ihesiulor Stadium, Okpuala Ngwa, organised by the Oha Isiala Ngwa People from Isiala Ngwa North and South local government areas, Otti said he would not be rushed into a declaration.
According to a statement by his spokesman, Njoku Ukoha, the governor acknowledged the endorsement from the people but emphasised that his political future rests with divine guidance.
“Just like 2023 was in the hands of God, 2027 will also be in the hands of God,” Otti was quoted as saying. “So, while I thank you for this endorsement because I see it as an endorsement of what has been achieved so far, I also thank you for making predictions. I would only say that I would go back and consult with my God. And as time goes on, my response will be made public. Because, as I said the other day, I know my people are waiting.”
The governor highlighted his administration’s development strategy, particularly the focused investment in Aba, the state’s commercial hub.
He explained that revitalising Aba is central to the government’s long-term economic agenda for Abia.
“Our concentration on Aba is because we do know that Aba can generate revenue for us to develop other parts of the state,” he said. “Aba occupies a prime place in our strategy because that is our major commercial hub. Not just for Abia, but the South-East and South-South.”
On inclusive development, Otti reaffirmed that his government is working across all zones of the state and not limiting infrastructure projects to select areas.
He gave an update on the Mgboko–Ntigha road project, stating that it would be completed by December 2025.
The governor also addressed concerns surrounding the siting of the proposed Abia Airport at Nsulu. He clarified that the location was chosen based on technical assessments and not political influence. He further disclosed that all affected landowners have been fully compensated.
“We are not just building an airport; we are building an airport city,” Otti explained. “A three or four-star hotel is going to be there, and even the Nigeria Air Force is going to have a base there. There are going to be markets and shopping plazas within the facility.
“We have paid 100 per cent compensation to everybody whose land was affected. If there’s anyone that has not been paid, it is not our fault. Maybe they provided the wrong account number or there are three or four people struggling for the same space.”
The Abia Airport, according to Otti, is designed to become a comprehensive development hub aimed at unlocking new economic opportunities and positioning Abia as a strategic gateway in the region.
