POLITICS
Otti Breaks Silence on What Happened to Abia Rescue Movement Supporters in 2016, Makes Powerful Declaration
2027: Otti Remembers Deceased Political Allies, Pays Tribute to Founding Members of Abia Rescue Movement
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has paid tribute to deceased members and founding supporters of the political movement that championed his emergence as governor, describing their sacrifices as an enduring part of the struggle to rebuild the state.
Otti, who spoke during the formal flag-off of the Labour Party’s 2027 governorship campaign in Umuahia, called for a minute of silence in honour of political associates, friends and foundational members of the movement who died before witnessing the administration’s achievements.
The governor recalled that the journey towards what he described as the rescue of Abia began about 12 years ago, with a commitment to challenge governance failure and establish a political system focused on development and the welfare of the people.
He specifically mentioned Prince Art S. Ndukwe Kalu, popularly known as Abbott; Mazi Nanna Ngu; Mr Ezi Alomofuna, also known as Rico; Prince Dike; Dr Mike Nwachi; Prince Emegha of Bende; Chief Enyi Agwu; and Chief Michael Nkwoji, popularly known as Mike Marchandise, among others.
According to Otti, the individuals played significant roles in building a movement whose identity was shaped by resilience, faith and determination despite political pressure.
He recalled an incident around 2016 when the fence of one of the supporters, Bro. Ema Okori, was reportedly pulled down because of his support for the movement.
Expressing gratitude that political circumstances had changed, Otti declared that such intimidation should never return to Abia’s political environment.
Every second brings Nigerians closer to exercising their democratic right and shaping the future of our nation.
Exercise your democratic right responsibly, peacefully and lawfully.
“Never again will anybody’s fence be pulled down,” he said.
The governor noted that the sacrifices of the deceased political associates remained a reminder that meaningful political struggles should ultimately leave communities better than they were found.
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He also acknowledged the contributions of other leaders and supporters who worked towards the emergence of a new political direction in Abia but did not live to witness the present administration.
Otti described their commitment as invaluable to the political journey, urging current members and supporters to preserve the unity, courage and sense of purpose that sustained the movement through difficult years.
He further called on supporters to remain committed as the Labour Party prepares for the February 6, 2027 governorship election, describing the next phase as an opportunity to consolidate the political and developmental vision for which many of the movement’s founding members had laboured.
The governor’s tribute formed part of his address themed “Winning Together,” delivered as he and his deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, seek another four-year mandate from Abia voters.
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