Abia State Governor Alex Otti has condemned the early politicking around the 2027 general elections, describing such moves as presumptuous and misguided. According to the Governor, discussions about future elections, barely two years into the current democratic cycle, are premature and an attempt by politicians to “play God.”
Otti made these remarks on Sunday while receiving Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former Abia State Governor and current Senator representing Abia North, along with Senator Chris Adighije, a former representative of Abia Central. The two leaders paid a courtesy visit to commend Otti for his achievements and discuss matters of governance.
In a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Otti cautioned against focusing on 2027 when the future itself is uncertain.
“Talking about 2027 in 2025 is presumptuous. No one is guaranteed tomorrow,” he said. “Today is certain; tomorrow is a promise, and the day after is pure speculation. Let us focus on today. When tomorrow comes, if we’re lucky to see it, then we can talk about it.”
Governor Otti also expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy, which he described as long overdue and necessary.
“The fuel subsidy was a scam. President Tinubu made a courageous decision that should have been taken years ago. We have behaved irresponsibly as a nation for too long. Fixing the damage will be tough, but if we stay the course, we’ll get it right,” Otti stated.
He highlighted his long-standing advocacy for fuel subsidy removal, referencing his past columns in ThisDay newspaper, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Otti reaffirmed his commitment to governance over politics, saying he prefers to focus on delivering results for Abians rather than engaging in political feuds.
“Governance is a continuum. We’ve hit the reset button and moved forward. I’m using the time I have to work for the people, not to fight anyone,” he said, while acknowledging the infrastructure foundation laid by Senator Kalu during his tenure as Governor.
“Fix the place that generates revenue, and the revenue will flow to fix other places. That template still works,” he noted.
In response, Senator Kalu praised Governor Otti for transforming critical road infrastructure in the state. He specifically commended the rehabilitation of the Umuahia–Bende–Ohafia road, which had been neglected for over 16 years.
“I rode from Igbere to Umuahia in under an hour—something that used to take three. That road is now smooth and fast. You’ve done very well,” Kalu said. “You’re my brother for life. Whether or not you’re running for office, you’ve shown leadership, and the state is better for it.”
Kalu encouraged Otti to maintain a close relationship with President Tinubu, emphasizing that his suggestion was not about political realignment but about working together for the good of the state.
Senator Adighije also expressed his continued support for Governor Otti, stressing that progress should be prioritized over party affiliations.
“I’m proud to be an Abian, and I have no regrets supporting Governor Otti. It’s not about politics, it’s about the future of our state,” he said.
Both Senators concluded by commending President Tinubu’s performance at the national level while urging Governor Otti to remain supportive of the administration’s efforts.
