Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has issued a directive that all public facilities in the state, including stadia, be made available to all political parties for their activities, provided they obtain the necessary approvals and make the required payments. This move is aimed at promoting a level playing field for all political parties in the state. The directive was given during the formal flag-off of the Labour Party's campaign for the 2027 governorship election and the inauguration of the party's Advisory Council.
Governor Otti also warned against attempts to frustrate opposition parties or disrupt their campaigns, emphasizing that his administration would not tolerate political intolerance or the denial of legitimate rights to other parties. He directed security agencies to arrest and deal decisively with anyone who attempted to obstruct any political group from carrying out legitimate activities, irrespective of party affiliation.
The governor urged political parties and their supporters to engage in peaceful campaigns, avoid personal attacks, and focus on issues that can advance the development of the state. He emphasized that his administration has taken deliberate steps to address structural challenges and barriers to economic productivity, restored the dignity of the people, and made Abia a reference point in development conversations.
Otti, who is seeking re-election alongside his deputy, Engr Ikechukwu Emetu, described the 2027 election as an opportunity for the people to consolidate the gains recorded by his administration over the past 41 months. He called on party members and supporters to work towards securing another four-year mandate, saying his administration intends to deepen development across the state.
The governor outlined his vision for the next four years, which includes extending development through policies and investment decisions designed to position Abia to take advantage of emerging economic opportunities. He claimed that Abia has witnessed significant transformation under his administration and that a fresh mandate would enable the government to build on the progress recorded.
Otti challenged opposition parties to present credible alternatives and campaign on issues beyond the traditional areas of salaries, pensions, road construction, and urban sanitation, which he said his administration has substantially addressed. He also highlighted Abia's ranking in various governance assessment institutions, including the Citizens Satisfaction Index and the States Performance Index.
The event, which featured the inauguration of the Labour Party's Advisory Council and the flag-off of the party's campaign, was attended by several dignitaries, including Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Chief Ginger Onwusibe, and the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa. The Advisory Council's chairman, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, expressed confidence in Otti's leadership and pledged to work towards the re-election of Otti and other Labour Party candidates.
Key points
- Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, directs that all public facilities be made available to all political parties for their activities.
- Otti warns against attempts to frustrate opposition parties or disrupt their campaigns.
- The governor seeks re-election, citing significant progress and transformation in Abia under his administration.
