Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has condemned the ongoing discussion and coalition ahead of the 2027 election.
Despite the current democratic tenure being less than two years old, certain politicians have already begun early talks and subtle campaigns.
Mr Otti argued that those discussing the 2027 elections in 2025 are ‘overstepping’ because nobody can be certain of their future beyond the immediate present.
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He made these remarks yesterday during a meeting with former Abia State Governor and current Senator for Abia North, Orji Kalu, alongside Chris Adighije, who previously represented Abia Central.
According to a statement from the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Ukoha, the senators visited Mr Otti in a friendly capacity to praise his achievements in the state and to engage in discussions about governance.
Mr Otti stated, “People are already talking about 2027 in 2025, yet there’s no guarantee any of us will be here beyond this year. Who are they to be discussing 2027 already?”
He questioned the boldness of those prematurely focusing on the future, likening it to ‘playing God.’
He added, “Today is certain; tomorrow is hopeful. The day after tomorrow is a gamble. Let’s focus on the present. When tomorrow arrives, if we’re fortunate to see it, then we can begin those conversations.”
He stressed that no one should speak for the future except at their own peril.
On the economy, the governor reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s tough but necessary economic reforms.
He specifically applauded the removal of the fuel subsidy, describing it as a long-overdue and courageous decision.
“Supporting President Tinubu is straightforward for me. Our friendship predates political affiliations, and while we don’t agree on everything, on economic matters, I have always aligned with his stance,” the governor explained.
He urged people to revisit his past writings, particularly those published during the Covid-19 pandemic in ‘ThisDay’ newspaper, where he advocated for the removal of fuel subsidies amid declining crude demand from off-takers.
“It takes courage to remove a subsidy, and I fully back it. We’ve acted irresponsibly for too long, and correcting that behaviour is inevitably tough and painful. This is the adjustment we’re undergoing now. If we maintain faith, we will succeed eventually.”
Mr Otti expressed gratitude to the former governor for his past contributions to Abia but emphasised that his administration is focused on moving forward rather than dwelling on previous challenges.
“Governance is a continuous process. It can be disrupted, but you must restore it,” he said, recalling how his late mother was a strong supporter of Orji Kalu due to the positive road projects delivered during his tenure, particularly in Aba.
“I am following that same model—fix revenue-generating areas first, then use those resources to develop other regions.”
Mr Kalu described Mr Otti as a lifelong friend beyond politics. He praised the improvement of the road from Igbere to Umuahia, which has reduced travel time from three hours to less than one hour thanks to Otti’s infrastructure projects in the region.
“You’re my brother for life. Whether you contest elections or not, our bond remains. You’ve done well for Abia State, and the state will continue to progress under your leadership,” Mr Kalu said.
He also commended the State Commissioner for Works for the road rehabilitation in Igbere, describing the road as “a smooth ride, unlike before.”
Mr Kalu added, “Abians know what benefits them, and only they can decide who leads. When the people are content, you don’t settle for the best —you choose your best.”
He urged the governor to maintain close ties with Mr Tinubu rather than abandoning his political party, expressing his intention to continue visiting the governor whenever he is in Abia.
Mr Adighije, speaking next, expressed pride in being from Abia and reiterated his support for Mr Otti, emphasising that his backing is based on the progress of the state rather than partisan politics.
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He also praised Mr Tinubu’s national leadership while commending Mr Otti’s achievements in Abia.
Together with Mr Kalu, he appealed to the governor to continue supporting the President.
