Govs Otti Says He’s Using Orji Uzor Kalu’s Template To Rebuild Abia, Reaffirms Support for Tinubu’s Economic Reforms
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has revealed that he is adopting the development approach of former Governor Orji Uzor Kalu, especially in prioritising infrastructural work in revenue-generating areas like Aba. He explained, “I can assure you, that template is not wrong. You fix the place that generates the revenue, the revenue will come, and you use it to fix other places.”
Otti made this known on Sunday while receiving Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Senator Chris Adighije at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. The two senators paid him a friendly visit to discuss governance-related matters.
The Governor used the opportunity to reiterate his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commending the President for his bold economic reforms, including the removal of the fuel subsidy.
“When you talk about supporting President Tinubu, the President and I are very good friends and our friendship predates party politics and current positions; we agree on so many issues, and as it is natural, we know where we disagree. But, when you talk about the economy, what Mr. President is doing has always been my position for a long time,” Otti stated.
He added, “I urge people to go back and read my columns at the back of Thisday Newspaper, some years back, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, where I said that it was time to remove fuel subsidy when off-takers were rejecting crude shipped to them, saying that they have no need for it.
“So, it requires somebody with courage to remove that subsidy, and I am in support of it. We have behaved in an irresponsible manner for a very long time. And, when you have years of irresponsible behaviour, the correction would be tough, difficult, and painful. It is the correction that we are going through now; if we don’t lose faith, we will eventually get it right.
“So, talking about supporting the President, it’s a no-brainer; I will continue to support him because it is the same administration,” Gov. Otti added.
Speaking on 2027 political discussions, Otti dismissed the premature talks about future elections. “People in 2025 are talking of 2027—you can’t even talk about 2027 because there is no guarantee that you would go beyond 2025. Who are you to begin to talk about 2027?” he said. “Today is certain; tomorrow is a promise. Next, tomorrow is gambling.”
The Governor expressed appreciation to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu for his past contributions to Abia State’s development, noting that his own mother was a strong supporter of Kalu during his time as governor, particularly for his road projects in Aba. He stated that instead of blaming the past, his administration decided to “hit the reset button” and start afresh, focusing on delivering for the people.
He revealed that the impact of the infrastructure projects in Aba has inspired public confidence, citing an example of a resident who donated ₦200 million to support the government after seeing the quality of roadwork. “There is no sleep in Aba now. People don’t go to bed… Once people are awake, money is changing hands. And, any time money changes hands, people make money. That’s how the economy works, it’s not rocket science,” Otti said.
The governor also disclosed plans to extend economic vibrancy to other parts of the state by lighting up the Umuahia to Ohafia axis to ensure the economy doesn’t shut down at night.
In response, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu praised Otti’s performance, saying he has transformed travel within Abia. “I flew (rode) from Igbere to the Governor’s residence with ease… You have done well for our state. Thank you very much,” Kalu said, reaffirming his support and describing Otti as “my friend for life.”
Kalu encouraged Otti to maintain a close relationship with President Tinubu and assured him that political differences would never affect their brotherhood. “Abians know what is good for them,” he added.
Also speaking, Senator Chris Adighije expressed pride in Otti’s leadership and emphasised that his support for the governor transcends party politics. He joined Kalu in urging Otti to continue supporting President Tinubu while commending the President’s efforts at the national level.
