Abia State Governor Alex Otti has shared a harrowing experience of an assassination attempt in 2015, which he believes was thwarted by divine intervention. Speaking at the Abia Solemn Assembly and Covenant Renewal Service in Umuahia, Mr. Otti recounted that he had planned to meet someone in Abuja but was stood up, leading him to decide to leave the city. Despite objections from friends, he insisted on departing, which ultimately saved him from the attack.
According to Governor Otti, assassins attacked his Abuja residence in Maitama, killing two policemen and searching for him. Believing he was still on the premises, the attackers searched the adjoining compound but could not find him. Mr. Otti attributed his escape to God's intervention, saying there was no logical reason for him to have left Abuja at that time. The incident reinforced his conviction to serve God, which he believes has guided him throughout his political journey.
Governor Otti also revealed that some friends had tried to dissuade him from entering politics, while others suggested he seek protection through traditional means or by joining certain societies. However, Mr. Otti remained committed to his decision to serve God, citing the biblical account of Joshua 24:15, where Joshua declares his commitment to serving the Lord. This conviction, he said, has been the anchor of his administration's policies and actions.
The event, organized by the Abia State Government, was attended by top government officials, including Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu, and a team of clerics. The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu, noted that Abia had been in captivity for years until Governor Otti's emergence, and that the governor's administration had achieved significant milestones through faith and prayer.
In his homily, Lead Pastor of Transforming Church International, Sam Oye, commended Governor Otti's administration for its achievements in road infrastructure, healthcare, education, and land reforms. However, Mr. Oye emphasized that more work remained to be done, citing Joshua 13:1, which reminds believers that there is always more to be accomplished. He charged the governor to focus on strengthening institutions and outlining industrial and agro-processing corridors.
The Covenant Renewal Service featured intercessory prayers, a praise-and-worship session, and exhortations by clerics. Governor Otti's account of the assassination attempt and his commitment to serving God was seen as a testament to the power of faith in overcoming adversity. The event provided an opportunity for the governor and his administration to reflect on their accomplishments and recommit to their vision for Abia State.
The Abia Solemn Assembly and Covenant Renewal Service was a significant event that highlighted the governor's commitment to his faith and his administration's achievements. Governor Otti's story serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of challenges. As the governor looks to the future, his administration is expected to continue along the path of faith and service, with a focus on achieving more milestones and realizing the vision for Abia State.
Key points
- Governor Alex Otti of Abia State recounts a 2015 assassination attempt and attributes his escape to divine intervention.
- The governor's commitment to serving God has guided his administration's policies and actions.
- The Abia Solemn Assembly and Covenant Renewal Service was attended by top government officials and featured intercessory prayers and exhortations by clerics.
