According to a statement from the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, both senators visited Otti to express their commendation and support for the commendable work he is undertaking in the state, as well as to discuss governance matters with him.
Governor Otti remarked, “Individuals in 2025 are already discussing 2027… it is premature to even consider 2027, as there is no certainty that one will live beyond 2025. Who are you to initiate conversations about 2027?” he questioned, reflecting on the audacity of those who are broaching the topic of 2027, attempting to play God.
“Today is definite; tomorrow is merely a promise. The day after tomorrow is a gamble. Let us focus on today; when tomorrow arrives, and if we are fortunate enough to experience it, we can engage in that discussion,” the Governor emphasized, adding that no one is qualified to speculate about tomorrow unless they wish to assume the role of God. The Abia governor further expressed his commitment to supporting President Bola Tinubu as he undertakes challenging yet essential economic measures to rectify Nigeria’s economy, noting that the elimination of the fuel subsidy, which he labeled a scam, was a bold decision by President Tinubu that should have been implemented much earlier.
“When discussing support for President Tinubu, I want to emphasize that the President and I share a strong friendship that predates our political affiliations and current roles; we find common ground on numerous issues, while also recognizing our differences. However, regarding the economy, I have consistently aligned with the President’s approach for quite some time,” the Governor stated.
He encouraged individuals to revisit his past columns in Thisday Newspaper, particularly those written during the Covid-19 pandemic, where he advocated for the removal of the fuel subsidy at a time when off-takers were declining crude shipments, indicating they had no use for it.
“It takes a person of courage to eliminate that subsidy, and I fully support this action. We have acted irresponsibly for an extended period. When there are years of such behavior, the necessary corrections will be challenging, arduous, and painful. We are currently undergoing this correction; if we maintain our faith, we will ultimately succeed.
“Thus, when it comes to supporting the President, it is an obvious choice; I will persist in my support as it is the same administration,” Gov. Otti continued.
He expressed gratitude to the former Governor for his contributions to the State in the past, noting that there is no point in lingering on past mistakes. He stated that his administration’s focus is on resetting and moving forward without looking back. He stressed that he is dedicated to serving the people rather than engaging in conflicts. “Government and governance are continuous processes; they can be disrupted, but one must return to restore them,” Governor Otti elaborated, reminiscing about how his late mother was a staunch supporter of Orji Uzor Kalu due to his commendable road construction efforts during his governorship, particularly in Aba, and added that he is following the same model.
“I can assure you, this model is sound. By addressing the areas that generate revenue, the funds will flow, allowing us to invest in other areas.”
Senator Kalu, who referred to Governor Otti as a friend with whom he cannot engage in political rivalry, stated that he ‘flew’ (traveled) from Igbere to the Governor’s residence effortlessly. He praised the condition of the road from Igbere to Umuahia, noting that it has significantly shortened the travel time from three hours, when the road was in poor condition, to under an hour, thanks to Governor Otti’s efforts in repairing the road that connects Umuahia, Bende, and Ohafia LGAs, which had been neglected for over 16 years since his (Orji Kalu’s) departure from office.
‘You are my friend for life; you are my brother for life. Regardless of whether you are campaigning or not, brotherhood remains unchanged… you have made commendable contributions to our State. Thank you very much.
‘I want to emphasize that you have performed admirably, and the State will continue to prosper under your guidance,’ Dr. Kalu asserted.
Further elaborating, Senator Kalu expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for Works for the road rehabilitation efforts in Igbere. ‘I traveled (rode) on that road, and it is no longer the same. That is the reality. It feels like flying because it is smooth driving without interruptions, and I am genuinely pleased with that road.
‘I believe the people of Abia understand what is beneficial for them. They are the ones who will decide who governs their state. When the populace is satisfied, they do not settle for less; they strive for the best.’
In his declaration of support for Governor Otti, Senator Kalu encouraged him to also support President Tinubu, expressing his desire for the Governor to maintain a close relationship with the President without leaving his political party. He extended his best wishes to the Governor and his family, assuring him that he would continue to visit whenever he is in the State.
Senator Adighije also expressed his pride in being an Abian, affirming that he made no error in supporting Governor Otti and will persist in his support, emphasizing that it transcends partisan politics and focuses on the advancement of the State.
While praising President Tinubu’s performance at the national level, he remarked that Governor Otti is excelling in his role for the State. He joined Senator Kalu in urging the Governor to support president tinubu
