We Are Building Strong Institutions, Not Strong Men – Gov. Otti Urges Citizens To Register In Ongoing Voter Registration Exercise

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building lasting systems rather than relying on individuals. He made this known on Sunday, October 12, during the Christ Embassy Miracle Crusade held at Enyimba International Stadium, Aba.

Governor Otti said his government is focused on establishing institutions that will stand the test of time and continue to function effectively beyond any administration.

“We are building institutions that will outlast men. When you build men, when the men go, you may return to square one. But here, we are building enduring institutions,” the Governor stated.

The Governor assured that although his administration may make mistakes, it will never act in bad faith. “We are not perfect, we can make mistakes, but we are not arrogant. If we make a mistake and we find out, we will correct the mistake and apologise. But I can assure you that this is a government that will not deliberately make a mistake or deliberately do the wrong thing.”

Dr. Otti highlighted the transparent recruitment process of teachers as proof of his government’s institutional reforms. He said no applicant paid bribes or used connections to secure employment. “That you know somebody does not help,” he noted, adding that recruitment was based strictly on merit through Computer-Based Tests (CBT) and interviews.

The Governor revealed that his administration’s ongoing recruitment of 771 health workers has attracted applications from around the world, including from non-Nigerians in Zambia and South Africa. He assured that the era when jobs were given only to those with connections was over.

Dr. Otti acknowledged that his administration faces criticism, but he remains undeterred. “Even Jesus Christ was attacked. Once God is with you, no man can prevail against you,” he declared.

He urged Abians to support good leadership and take part in the ongoing voter registration exercise as a way of sustaining positive governance. “Every society gets the kind of leadership it deserves. And if you get the kind of leadership you deserve, you have to protect it. How do you protect it? You must vote. The continuous voter registration exercise has started. Are you aware? Have you registered? Please, if you have not registered, go and register,” he appealed.

According to him, the people’s votes in 2023 brought about the present administration, adding that the more righteous people vote, the less chance of wrong leaders emerging. He assured citizens that no one can intimidate them, stressing that Abia belongs to everyone. “Those making noise about 2027 are not God. Only God knows what will happen tomorrow,” he said.

Governor Otti appreciated the Church for its unwavering support through prayers and fasting, both before and after his emergence as Governor. He encouraged citizens to remain steadfast and patient in their pursuits, saying that “God’s time is the best.”

Earlier, Pastor Felix Ebuade, the Zonal Pastor of Christ Embassy, Aba Zone, described Governor Otti as an answer to long-standing prayers for good governance in Abia. “For years, I prayed for God to bring true development in Abia. Today, I can boldly say that God has answered our prayers by giving us Governor Alex Otti,” he said.

The event also featured prayers by Archbishop (Dr.) Goddy Okafor, founder of Glorious Life Gospel Centre (GLGC), and other senior clergy, who interceded for the Governor, his administration, and the people of Abia State.