Abia Monarchs Endorse Otti for Second Term, Caution Aspirants Against Undemocratic Process

Traditional rulers across Abia State have thrown their weight behind Governor Alex Otti’s re-election bid, unanimously endorsing him as their preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election.

The Over 500 traditional rulers in Abia expressed confidence in his leadership and the direction of governance in the state, citing what they described as his transformative impact on the people.

The endorsement was announced after a statewide consultation and sensitization tour undertaken by the leadership of the Abia State Traditional Rulers Council, alongside chairmen of the Traditional Rulers in the 17 Local Government Areas.

The tour, according to them, was designed to engage traditional rulers across the state and mobilise residents to participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise by registering and collecting their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Speaking on behalf of the council, the Chairman of the Abia State Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Dr. Linus Nto Mbah, said the decision to endorse Governor Otti followed extensive consultations with traditional institutions across Abia.

“We have carefully assessed the state of affairs in Abia and the performance of the present administration. Based on the overwhelming feedback from communities and traditional rulers across the state, we have unanimously adopted Governor Alex Otti as our sole candidate for the 2027 governorship election,” he said.

Eze Mba noted that the traditional rulers were impressed by what they described as the governor’s commitment to development, infrastructural renewal, and improved governance since assuming office.

According to him, the council’s endorsement reflects the collective position of the traditional institution in recognition of the progress recorded under the current administration.

“We have witnessed significant improvements and a remarkable transformation in many sectors of the state’s economy and public life. These achievements have strengthened our confidence in Governor Otti’s leadership and informed our decision to support his re-election,” he added.

The monarchs also urged eligible voters to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise to register, stressing that active participation in the democratic process remains essential to sustaining good governance.

They further cautioned politicians and aspirants against actions capable of undermining the electoral process.

“We advise all those with political ambitions to pursue them within the bounds of the law and democratic principles. The will of the people must be respected, and any attempt to subvert the electoral process should be avoided,” the council stated.

The endorsement was jointly signed by the Chairman of the Council, HRM Eze Dr. Linus Nto Mba; the 1st Deputy Chairman, HRM Eze Nelson Nmerengwa; the 2nd Deputy Chairman, HRM Eze Franklin Nwosu; and the 3rd Deputy Chairman, HRM Eze Uwakwe Ukaegbu.