In a significant show of political convergence, three prominent contenders in the 2023 Abia State governorship election have set aside previous political differences to jointly endorse the incumbent Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for a second term in office.
The former governorship candidates — Apostle Dr. Ngozika Gladys Johnson-
Chukwunenye (formerly Johnson-Ogbuneke), His Grace, Archbishop Sunday
Ndukwo Onuoha, and Dr. Uchechukwu Samson Ogah, CON, OON, FCA —
announced their unanimous support in a joint statement, describing their decision as a response to what they regard as significant developments recorded under the Otti administration.
“We do hereby boldly and unequivocally endorse Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for
a second term as Executive Governor of Abia State.”
The former candidates, who contested against one another in the general
elections in 2023, said their decision was informed by what they described as
“overwhelming evidence on the ground” and a shared commitment to the long-
term development of Abia anyi.
According to them, the first term of the Otti administration has demonstrated a
governance approach focused on infrastructure renewal, economic
development, public-sector reform, human capital development, and improved service delivery in basic sectors of direct human impact, restoring hope of a better Abia to the common Abian.
Key Areas Highlighted:
The leaders pointed to several areas which, in their assessment, distinguish the current administration, including:
1. Infrastructure Development:
They highlighted the reconstruction of Port Harcourt Road in Aba, road projects
across the state’s 17 Local Government Areas, and ongoing urban renewal
initiatives in major Abia cities.
1. Economic Development:
They cited efforts to strengthen the business environment, support small and medium-sized enterprises, revive Aba’s commercial and industrial potential, and attract investment into the state.
1. Human Capital and Social Development:
The leaders also referenced the administration’s regular payment of salaries and pensions, efforts to address inherited arrears, and investments in primary healthcare and education.
4. Governance, Security and Public Order:
They commended measures aimed at improving public order, decongesting
cities, strengthening accountability, reducing waste and creating a more
structured environment for economic and social activities.
The former candidates said these developments influenced their decision to support the Governor’s bid for a second term, as they placed sustainable
progress in Abia above partisan considerations.
Apostle Dr. Ngozika Gladys Johnson-Chukwunenye said her decision stemmed from her desire to see Abia continue on a path of development:
“I ran to serve Abia. Today, I see service in action. To deny it would be to deny
what is evident in our state. For the sake of our children, grandchildren and the future of Abia, I endorse Dr. Alex Otti for a second term. This is what governance looks like- a presence that feels the pain of the widows, addresses the struggles of the trader, and responds to the prayers of the youth.”
His Grace, Archbishop Sunday Ndukwo Onuoha, similarly emphasized the
importance of continuity and responsible leadership at a time when the state
deserves political strong-will to walk the talk.
“When leadership demonstrates a commitment to the people and to the
development of the state, we must recognize and support what is working. Abia cannot afford to lose the gains being made at this time, and the healing it has brought to our people.”
For Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, CON, OON, FCA, the emphasis is on
consolidation. “Industrialisation, discipline and vision are essential to the transformation of Abia. The progress recorded so far must be consolidated so that the state can fully realise its economic potential.”
The three leaders subsequently called on Abians across political parties,
communities and social groups to consider the broader interests of the state as the 2027 governorship election approaches. Their joint position represents a notable political development, particularly
because all three were previously candidates for the state’s highest political
office in the 2023 elections.
Their message is therefore one of continuity, consolidation and the prioritisation of development over political differences.
As Abia looks toward 2027, this is sending a clear message that “competence has a name, performance has a face, and for Abia, Alex Chioma Otti represents that ideal. For us, our position is clear – we believe Governor Alex Otti has earned the opportunity to serve Abia for a second term; he has started
profoundly well, and we look forward to the future progress that another tenure
will afford him and Abians.
The endorsement thus adds a new dimension to the state’s political
conversation and signals growing debate around the performance of the
present administration and the question of continuity.
