Otti Rules Out Opposition to Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Second-Term Bid

Governor Alex Otti has said he is not in a position to oppose the potential second-term candidacy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that he is also seeking re-election and believes it would be inappropriate to challenge the President’s ambition.

The Governor was responding to a question during his monthly media chat with journalists tagged ‘Governor Alex Otti Speaks to Abians’ on Friday, on the remarks made by the member representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency Hon Ginger Onwusibe stating that the Governor supports the second term ambition of President Tinubu.

The governor also dismissed speculation about defecting from the Labour Party, affirming his continued commitment to the party.

Speaking on security, Otti announced the appointment of retired Colonel Chidi Kalu Ukoha as Homeland Security Manager, stating that the administration is laying the groundwork for the eventual takeoff of state policing.

He expressed confidence that the new appointee would play a key role in its implementation.

Addressing the rising cost of housing, the governor attributed the increase in rent to population growth and higher demand, particularly as more people move into the state. He added that the government has begun developing new housing estates to help stabilise prices.

On electricity, Otti revealed that Aba and nine other local government areas have been disconnected from the national grid, with efforts underway to boost independent power generation. He maintained that the government would not subsidise electricity, arguing that a stable power supply is ultimately more cost-effective than reliance on generators and diesel.

Regarding the Okon-Aku crisis, which led to the killing of a youth Igwe Akuma, the governor said the seven-man investigative committee set up on January 13, 2026, has been granted a 60-day extension to conclude its work.

Otti emphasised that law enforcement in the state would remain impartial in handling the anti-grazing law in the State, warning that offenders would be prosecuted regardless of their region of origin.

In the education sector, the governor disclosed ongoing construction of 5,000-bed hostels for male and female students, alongside plans to recruit 4,000 teachers. He also confirmed the restoration of electricity at Abia State University and the development of a substation within the institution.

On economic development, Otti announced a $200 million investment deal with Presco Plc to develop palm processing operations across over 40,000 hectares of land in the state. He added that preparations are ongoing for the launch of the Abia Innovation and Industrial Park.

In healthcare, the governor said 200 primary health centres have been completed, with efforts focused on equipping them and digitising services. He noted that 569 healthcare workers have already been recruited, while several tertiary health institutions are undergoing renovation. He also expressed gratitude to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for donating an advanced MRI machine to the state.

Additionally, Otti commended residents of Aba for their peaceful protest calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, stating that democracy permits lawful demonstrations. He also revealed plans to convert the new Abia Government House into a five-star hotel to be managed by a private company.

He further applauded security agencies for maintaining professionalism during the protest.

Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to development across sectors, assuring residents that ongoing projects would be sustained to improve living standards in the state.