Otti Declares End to Political Intimidation as Abia Re-election Campaign Begins

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has declared an end to political intimidation and profiteering in the state, urging residents to support his re-election bid to consolidate his administration’s achievements.

Otti made the declaration on Sunday during the flag-off of his campaign at Umuahia Township Stadium in the state capital.

He said Abia had overcome years of hardship and poor leadership, adding that his unsuccessful attempts to lead the state in 2015 and 2019 preceded his eventual victory in 2023.

“We ended the era of political profiteers. We defied intimidation to liberate Abia and break Abia from the era of siege,” the governor said, insisting that the state would not return to what he described as irresponsible leadership.

Recalling incidents in which residents allegedly suffered property demolitions because of their political affiliations, Otti vowed that such experiences would not be repeated.

“Never again will anyone’s fence be pulled down on account of political choices. I declare Abia free,” he said.

The governor urged residents to support him for another four years, citing investments in education, industrial revival, small businesses and agriculture as key achievements of his administration.

He listed support for Abia State University, Uturu, and Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, among the investments made to strengthen tertiary education. He also highlighted efforts to revive industries in Aba, support small and medium-sized enterprises, and improve food production.

Otti said his administration had restored the dignity of Abia residents and called on voters to support the Labour Party in the 2027 general elections.

He also directed state officials to make public facilities available to political parties and candidates seeking venues for campaign activities, provided they pay the required fees and comply with applicable regulations.