RismadarVoice Reporters
October 11, 2026
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has cautioned residents against accepting money, food items and other material inducements in exchange for their votes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Otti said voters should consider the long-term implications of their electoral decisions rather than prioritise immediate financial benefits offered by politicians.
The governor made the remarks on Sunday during the second session of the seventh Synod of the Anglican Communion, Diocese of Aba Ngwa North, held at All Saints Anglican Cathedral, Abayi-Umuocham, Aba.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Caleb Ajagba, Otti accused some former political officeholders of attempting to regain influence in the state despite what he described as their contributions to Abia’s previous development challenges.
He urged residents to examine the records and intentions of those seeking their support.
“Don’t use the ₦5,000, the ₦10,000, the wrapper or the rice they will give you and close the destiny of Abians for the next four years,” the governor warned.
Otti maintained that electoral decisions should be guided by the interests of the state and the capacity of political leaders to deliver sustainable development.
He also expressed concern over what he described as increased political engagement with religious institutions as the elections approached.
According to him, some politicians who previously maintained limited relationships with churches had begun attending religious gatherings and seeking the support of faith leaders.
He urged Christians to assess such engagements critically rather than assume that public appearances necessarily reflected genuine commitments.
OTTI OUTLINES DEVELOPMENT CONSOLIDATION PLANS
Speaking on his administration’s performance, the governor said its first three years had been devoted largely to establishing the foundations for development across the state.
He explained that the next phase, beginning in 2027, would focus on consolidating projects and programmes initiated by his government.
Using building construction as an illustration, Otti described the foundation stage as essential to achieving lasting development.
He expressed confidence in his administration’s development agenda, although the claims concerning its achievements and future performance remain the governor’s assessment.
The governor also pledged support for the completion of the Church’s development projects while emphasising that public resources should primarily serve the wider needs of the state.
He commended the synod’s theme, “Don’t Just Absorb It; Think It Through,” drawn from Acts 17:11–12, describing it as relevant to political participation and public decision-making.
Otti encouraged Christians to verify information, evaluate competing claims and exercise independent judgment.
Earlier, the Bishop of Aba Ngwa North Diocese, Dr Nathan Kanu, said the theme challenged Christians to examine messages carefully and respond with discernment.
Kanu commended the governor’s relationship with the Church and offered prayers for the administration.
Delivering the sermon, the Bishop of Ohaji/Egbema Diocese, Rt. Rev. Chidi Oparajiaku, spoke on “The Bereans’ Wisdom,” urging believers to study information critically before accepting conclusions.
He explained that the biblical example of the Bereans encouraged careful examination of teachings and claims rather than unquestioning acceptance.
Oparajiaku also praised Otti’s leadership, expressing his view that the administration had contributed positively to Abia’s development.
Dignitaries at the synod included the Labour Party’s South-East National Vice-Chairman, Hon. Ishmael Onuoha; the party’s Abia State Chairman, Sir Peter Azubuike; and the Mayor of Osisioma Local Government Area, Hon. Chidi Agu.
Others were the governor’s Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr George Chiedozie; Special Adviser on Labour Matters, Godson Anucha; and Aba-based industrialist, Mr Bob Udeagha.
