The Ukwa La Ngwa people of Abia State have raised ₦100 million to purchase the nomination form for Governor Alex Otti as he prepares for a second-term bid in the 2027 governorship election.
The development was confirmed on Saturday in a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Njoku Ukoha. The contribution was formally announced during a civic reception held in Otti’s honour at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba on Friday.
Chairman of the reception’s steering committee and Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, said the funds were collectively donated by the people of Ukwa La Ngwa. He added that the group was willing to provide additional support if the need arises.
Addressing the large crowd at the event, Governor Otti expressed appreciation for the warm reception and the show of confidence in his leadership. He described the turnout as overwhelming and thanked residents for their continued backing and encouragement.
He assured the people that his administration would remain focused on their welfare, noting that governance in the state is no longer driven by personal or partisan interests but by public good.
Otti also revealed that key infrastructure projects would soon be delivered, including the commissioning of Ovom Road on February 25. On the same day, reconstruction work on the Enyimba Hotel expected to operate as a five-star facility under Radisson Blu management will commence. According to him, the project will not just be flagged off but completed and operational by next year.
The governor further urged residents, particularly those in Aba, to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and participate actively in the electoral process. He also called on communities to take responsibility for security and environmental cleanliness.
Speaking at the gathering, Chairman of the occasion and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party, Senator Adolphus Wabara, described the reception as a clear endorsement of the governor’s performance. He said the event represented the people’s collective approval rather than a partisan rally.
Other political figures, including Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and Labour Party National Secretary Darlington Nwokocha, commended Otti’s achievements across various sectors, saying his work has earned him broad support.
Earlier, community leader Chief Theo Nkire praised the governor for what he called significant progress in Aba’s development, describing the city as fast becoming a major industrial centre. Traditional rulers also pledged their loyalty, while cultural performances and the presence of several dignitaries added colour to the occasion.
