…. Receives Massive 2027 Endorsement From Imo Indigenes In Abia

Governor Alex Otti has directed the immediate calculation and payment of entitlements to workers disengaged between 2011 and 2012, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to justice, fairness and inclusive governance.

Responding to an appeal for the recall of workers disengaged between 2011 and 2012, the Governor explained that many of those affected have now reached retirement age and may no longer be able to return to active service.

He therefore directed that their outstanding entitlements be computed and paid without delay. According to him, the directive applies to all affected workers irrespective of their state of origin, noting that similar payments had already commenced for eligible beneficiaries following verification exercises.

This is a testament to the sincerity of  his administration as thousands of Imo indigenes resident in Abia State gathered in Aba to endorse him for a second term in 2027, citing his transformational leadership, infrastructural renewal, improved security and people-centred policies.

The endorsement came during a grand civic reception organised by Ndi Imo in Abia on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, in honour of Governor Otti and his wife, Mrs. Priscilla Otti. The event attracted Imo indigenes from all the 27 Local Government Areas resident in Abia State.
Addressing the gathering at the pavilion of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, Governor Otti assured residents that his administration would continue to implement policies that benefit everyone irrespective of state of origin, reiterating that there is no discrimination based on origin under his government.

The Governor thanked the Imo community for the overwhelming show of love and solidarity, particularly in honour of his wife, who hails from Mbaise in Imo State. He assured them that his administration’s achievements over the last three years represent only the beginning of greater developments to come.
“This is just the beginning. We have been here for just three years. By the grace of God, in the next five years, you will see even greater things. Once you have found your feet, there is no going back to Egypt. We will continue to develop and do better,” Governor Otti declared.

Governor Otti also appreciated the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Chief Perry Opara, for identifying with the event. He assured him that Imo indigenes living in Abia enjoy equal rights, security and opportunities as citizens of the state.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Uzodimma, Chief Perry Opara described the massive turnout as evidence of the cordial relationship between Imo residents and the Abia State Government. He noted that Governor Otti, whose wife is from Imo State, has continued to carry every resident along in governance and urged the people to remain peaceful and law-abiding.

In their separate remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Chibuike Achigbu; Chairman of the Steering Committee, Chief MacDonald; Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ndi Imo in Abia, Chief Boniface Mbachu, represented by Chief James Odocha; National President of South East Town Unions, Chief Emeka Diwe; Labour Party Zonal Women Leader for Abia South, Mrs. Lilian Ezenobi; the State Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW); and the Founder of the Local Boys Movement, Abia State Chapter, Comrade Chukwuma Azode, unanimously endorsed Governor Otti for a second term in office.

They applauded his visionary leadership and transformational achievements in infrastructure, security, stable electricity, economic development and good governance, describing his administration as one that has restored hope and confidence among residents. They also praised the First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, describing her as a worthy daughter of Imo State whose support has continued to strengthen the Governor’s success.

Delivering the vote of thanks, an Imo indigene and Commissioner in the Abia State Local Government Service Commission, Chief G.C. Duru, reaffirmed the unassuming support of Imo residents for Governor Otti’s re-election in 2027.

Speaking with journalists, Dr. Ikechukwu Ijemba, a Board of Trustees member of Ndi Imo in Aba and proprietor of Chris Mary Hotel, said Governor Otti’s administration has provided appointments for qualified sons and daughters of the community while transforming the state’s infrastructure, electricity supply and security architecture. He said these achievements informed their overwhelming endorsement.

Other stakeholders, including the Leader of Echezona Street Vanguard, Mr. Michael Aniorji; Managing Director of Kingswell Hospital, Aba, Dr. Ugochukwu Okoro; Chairman of Ngwa Market, Chief Ejim Munachimso; and broadcaster, M.C. Ifeanyi Ahanaihu of Magic FM, described the current administration as the most impactful since the return of democracy.

They likened Governor Otti’s developmental strides to those of the late Governor Sam Mbakwe and expressed confidence that history would remember him for positively transforming Abia State.
Several coordinators of Ndi Imo across the various Local Government Areas, including Ambassador Cosmos Ukata (Oru East), Barr. Uche Anyaiam (Nkwere), Mr. Chinedu Okere (Ngor Okpala), Mr. Augustine Opara (Aboh Mbaise), Mr. Frank Onuoha (Ahiazu Mbaise), Mr. Christian Orumadu and Chief Ferdinand Onuoha (Njaba), also commended the remarkable pace of development across Abia State. They noted that increasing property values, improved infrastructure and enhanced security clearly demonstrate that the state is on a new trajectory of growth.

They further disclosed that many eligible members of the Imo community resident in Abia have obtained or transferred their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to Abia State, expressing their determination to support Governor Otti’s re-election bid in 2027.
The colourful event featured cultural displays, traditional dances and masquerade performances showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Imo State, adding glamour to the celebration of unity, inclusiveness and transformational governance in Abia State.

The Online Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria (OMPAN), Abia State Chapter, has extended warm felicitations to the member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah, on the occasion of his birthday, describing him as a distinguished legislator, grassroots politician, and philanthropist committed to the welfare of his people.

In a congratulatory message endorsed by the Chairman of the Association, Comrade Promise Uzoma Okoro, ANIPR, OMPAN praised Hon. Ogah, who also serves as Patron of the Association, for his dedication to quality representation and impactful service to humanity.

The Association noted that Hon. Ogah has continued to distinguish himself through people-centered leadership, developmental initiatives, and a strong commitment to improving the lives of constituents across Isuikwuato and Umunneochi Federal Constituency.

According to OMPAN, the federal lawmaker’s contributions in the areas of education, youth empowerment, healthcare, and community development have positively transformed many lives, earning him admiration beyond political and social boundaries.

The Association further commended Hon. Ogah for his support to media practitioners in Abia State, noting that as one of the Patrons of OMPAN Abia, he has consistently championed initiatives that promote professionalism, ethical journalism, and the growth of online media practice in the state.

Describing the celebrant as a humble, accessible, and responsive leader, OMPAN said his birthday anniversary presents yet another opportunity to celebrate a man whose passion for service continues to inspire hope among the people.

The Association prayed for God’s continued blessings, sound health, divine wisdom, and greater strength for Hon. Ogah as he continues to render selfless service to his constituents, Abia State, and the nation at large.

As Nigeria marked this year’s Democracy Day, the Abia State Chapter of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has called for greater inclusion of women in politics, governance, and leadership, emphasizing that democracy can only thrive when every voice is heard and represented.

In a goodwill message to Nigerians, the Chairperson of Abia NAWOJ, Ambassador Norah Okafor, congratulated citizens on the commemoration of Democracy Day, describing the occasion as a moment of reflection on the nation’s democratic journey and the enduring values of participation, accountability, justice, and equal opportunity.

According to her, democracy flourishes best in an environment where women are not sidelined but actively involved in shaping policies and decisions that impact society.

“Today, we celebrate not only our democratic journey but also the values of inclusion, participation, accountability, and equal opportunity for all citizens. Democracy thrives when every voice is heard, and women must continue to have a seat at the table where decisions that shape our society are made,” she stated.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to championing the empowerment of women and encouraging their active participation in governance, stressing that women possess the competence, vision, and leadership capacity required for nation-building.

Abia NAWOJ further called for stronger support systems, mentorship, and opportunities that would encourage more women to contest elections, assume leadership positions, and influence policies that directly affect communities.

Speaking on the role of the media in deepening democracy, Amb. Okafor emphasized that women journalists have a sacred duty to uphold the ethics of the journalism profession through fairness, accuracy, objectivity, and responsible reporting.

She noted that ethical journalism remains a powerful tool for promoting informed civic engagement, amplifying marginalized voices, and strengthening democratic institutions across the country.

“As we mark this Democracy Day, let us work together to build a society where women are empowered, democratic values are protected, and the media continues to serve as a pillar of truth and accountability,” she added.

The association prayed for continued peace, unity, and democratic progress in Abia State and Nigeria at large, wishing all Nigerians a memorable Democracy Day celebration.