Old Bende Stakeholders Rally Behind Governor Alex Otti, Endorse His 2027 Re-election Bid

In a rare show of unity that cuts across traditional, political, and business lines, stakeholders from the Old Bende region of Abia State have thrown their collective weight behind Governor Dr. Alex Otti. During a high-powered meeting held in Aba on Monday, the Old Bende Progressive Union delivered a strong vote of confidence in the Governor’s leadership, while laying the groundwork for his re-election campaign ahead of 2027.

The meeting, held during a courtesy visit to Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, Member representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency, drew together over 50 influential figures. Among them were first-class traditional rulers, seasoned politicians, captains of industry, retired security officers, and respected community leaders from the nine LGAs that make up the Old Bende bloc.

Presiding over the meeting was HRM Eze Nwata Mbakwe, Chairman of the Old Bende Traditional Rulers Council. Alongside DIG Azubuko Joel Udah (rtd.), Chairman of the Old Bende Progressive Union, the royal father moved a motion that received overwhelming support: a formal vote of confidence in Governor Otti, anchored on his performance in office since taking over in 2023.

The stakeholders didn’t mince words in their communiqué. They highlighted a string of signature achievements that, in their view, have reset the developmental trajectory of Abia State:

• Infrastructure Projects: Commendation was given for the ongoing construction of the Abia International Airport, Seaport, Stadium City, and the Industrial Park. Rehabilitation of long-abandoned roads like Port Harcourt Road in Aba, Umuahia-Abriba Road, Ohanku, and Obohia roads were listed as proof of a serious infrastructure agenda.
• Economic and Fiscal Reforms: The union praised the prompt and consistent payment of salaries and pensions, as well as the clearing of years of arrears inherited from past administrations. This, they said, has restored trust in government.
• Healthcare Resuscitation: The revival of key health institutions such as General Hospital, Aba, and the Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH) was described as life-saving and critical to public confidence in governance.
• Security and Investment Climate: Members acknowledged the improved security situation in Abia, which has reportedly led to increased Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and a business-friendly environment, especially in Aba, the state’s commercial hub.

Prominent voices at the event—including Chief Jerry Kalu (Osimiri), Chief Emmanuel Otti (Acting State Chairman of the Labour Party), HRH Eze Ernest Onwukwe, Commander Peter Njoku, and Chief Vincent Uwadiogu—pledged not only support but active grassroots mobilization across the state to ensure Governor Otti’s second term.

Speaking at the gathering, Hon. Ikwechegh thanked the stakeholders for their vision and unity, describing their support as “validation of Governor Otti’s people-first agenda.” He emphasized that the momentum must be sustained across all LGAs in Old Bende and beyond.

As the meeting ended, one thing became clear: the Old Bende region—historically known for its political weight—is re-aligning itself ahead of 2027, and Dr. Alex Otti appears to be the man they are betting on.