Otti Charges Christians:Register, Vote,Lead
Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, has expressed the need for church leaders and their members not to shy away from their civic and political responsibilities.
He stated that the only way to sustain the ongoing developmental projects in the state is through active participation in elections. According to him, if believers do not take part, those who do not share their values will take centre stage.
The governor urged church leaders to impress upon their members the importance of registering in the ongoing voters’ card registration exercise conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Governor Otti gave this charge on Sunday at the Assemblies of God Church, 123 Tenant Road, Aba, during the 28th anniversary of the Zam Jehovah Nights programme, themed “Breaking Barriers.”
This was contained in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State, Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, and made available to journalists.
“So, if you have not registered, please ensure that you do so. The opportunity to register is now. Pastor, please help me—let our people register.
“There are many people in Aba whom I know are not registered. Some of them, even when registered, do not come out to vote on election day.
“The only way to ensure that the good things happening in our state continue is for all of you to speak with your votes,” Governor Otti said.
He reiterated that with another general election fast approaching, there is a need for church leaders and their members not to shy away from their civic duty.
He again emphasized that sustaining development in the state depends on citizens’ participation in elections.
“You know, I am a Levite; I am the son of a pastor. In the past, my father used to preach that people should stay away from politics.
“But they forgot the part of the Bible that says power belongs to God. So, if believers—Christians who should take authority—shy away, what will happen?
“Those who do not believe will take centre stage. So, if you have not registered, please ensure you do so. The opportunity is now. Pastor, please help me—let our people register.
“There are many people in Aba whom I know are not registered. Some, even when registered, will not come out on election day.
“The only way to ensure that the good things happening in our state continue is for all of you to speak with your votes,” he stated.
The governor congratulated the church on the 28th anniversary of the Zam Jehovah Nights programme and thanked them for their support.
He also appreciated the gift of a sculptured white horse presented to him.
Earlier, the Senior Pastor of the Assemblies of God Church, 123 Tenant Road, Aba, Rev. Dr. Ogboso Ejindu, noted that the Zam Jehovah Nights programme has been held consistently for 28 years.
He described the 30-day programme as an annual event that attracts participants from within and outside the country into the presence of God.
Rev. Ejindu, who said that the theme of this year’s event is “Breaking Barriers,” described Governor Otti as a progressive, focused, and hardworking leader who has come to dismantle long-standing barriers to the state’s development.
He noted that critics had described the governor as merely a “painter,” but maintained that the people are pleased with the “painting” being done across various sectors of the economy.
He expressed confidence that the administration would continue its work through 2031.
“We are not here to make speeches. What you are doing speaks for itself. We are simply here to say thank you—thank you, and thank you.
“Even before you assumed office, we had been praying for you, and we will continue to do so.
“Our theme this year is Breaking Barriers. God has given us a governor—a large-hearted, godly, people-oriented, consistent, and hardworking leader—who has begun to break barriers that have lasted for decades.
“Critics said all you could do was paint and repaint. My Governor, over 7,000 people have gathered here, and we are begging you—this painting, we like it,” Rev. Ejindu stated.
The Senior Pastor later presented the governor with a sculptured white horse, which he said symbolizes strength, glory, consistency, and excellence.
He also led the congregation in a fervent prayer for the governor, his administration, and the entire state.
Governor Otti was accompanied to the event by the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ihuoma Emeruwa; members of the House of Assembly; the Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Hon. Kingsley Nwokeocha; the Mayor of Aba North LGA, Hon. Timothy Iheke; the Director-General of GADA, Arc. Uche Ukeje; and other senior government appointees.
