Only the Politically Blind Deny Otti’s Abia Transformation— Agbazuere

A.C.B. Agbazuere in handshake with governor Alex Otti

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State, Professor A.C.B. Agbazuere, on Wednesday led members of his political structure to the Abia State Government House in Umuahia, where he formally declared support for the re-election of Governor Alex Otti in 2027.
Agbazuere, a former Commissioner for Information in Abia State, former Chief of Staff to a former governor, and PDP House of Representatives candidate for Isiala Ngwa North/South Federal Constituency, said he had resolved to join what he described as the “New Abia movement” to support Governor Otti’s second-term bid.
In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Agbazuere made the declaration during a solidarity visit to Governor Otti at his office, alongside members of his Owie Political Structure.
Addressing the governor, Agbazuere said:“Your Excellency, our visit is very simple. Given the kind of wisdom you possess, you probably knew that a day like this would come.
“I have come to the realization that I cannot allow you to undertake this political journey alone. Looking at those aspiring to become governor, none of them can match your performance and leadership credentials.
“If I support you, it is 100 per cent. If I do not support you, it is still 100 per cent because your performance already speaks for itself. But I cannot continue to remain in another party while publicly acknowledging that you are doing very well. I have to identify with you fully. That is the kind of person I am.
“The important thing now is that this will become a collective effort. Clearly, the hand of God is upon you, and I believe the journey ahead will be much easier.”
The former Information Commissioner described Governor Otti as a “good striker” who deserves continuity in office, adding that he visited with members of his political structure to demonstrate the seriousness of their support.
According to him, the Owie Structure boasts over 8,000 members across the state.
“If you have a very good striker and you want your team to win, there should be no reason to substitute that striker,”
“I could have come alone, but I decided to come with members of the Owie Structure because this decision is collective. During my elections, I secured over 13,580 votes, despite the realities of Nigerian politics.
“Beyond my personal conviction, many people have continued to urge me to align with this administration because of the visible developmental strides being recorded. After reviewing the situation critically, I concluded that this was not the time to remain a distant observer.” he said.
Agbazuere further commended Governor Otti’s performance across critical sectors, insisting that only those playing “blind politics” would fail to acknowledge the administration’s achievements.
“It is only someone driven purely by politics that would refuse to appreciate good governance,”.
“At my level, I say things exactly the way I see them. If someone enters Umuahia today—from the Federal Medical Centre axis downward—they will immediately notice the transformation. Even the pedestrian walkways and road dividers reflect a government that cares about the safety of ordinary people.
“You widened the roads, transformed the Okpara Square axis, and fulfilled your promise of expanding Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard into a six-lane road in less than two years.
“And after completing that stretch from Okpara Square to the Tower, you extended the project further towards Onu Imo. When one considers the speed and quality of work on projects such as Port Harcourt Road, it becomes evident that this administration is focused and determined.
“The transformation around the former SSG’s office and the Michael Okpara Auditorium also speaks volumes.
“I said to myself: this is a man who has done so much and has not disappointed in governance. I congratulate you on your achievements so far. We would not have come here if we were not convinced.”he stated.
Responding, Governor Alex Otti welcomed Agbazuere and members of the Owie Structure, expressing appreciation for their support and recognition of his administration’s achievements.
The governor assured them that more developmental projects were underway across the state.
“We are happy that the impact of governance is being felt because that is what leadership is all about,”.
“You may appear to be working hard, but ultimately, results are what matter most.
“I want to thank you and reassure you that we will continue to push forward. In fact, we intend to increase the pace because when we came in, there were numerous obstacles we had to overcome before stabilising the system.” he said.
Governor Otti also thanked Agbazuere and his supporters for offering to participate in the administration’s political activities ahead of the 2027 elections.
He subsequently directed the Chief of Staff to facilitate their formal registration into the Labour Party, assuring them of equal treatment within the party structure.
“I want to sincerely thank you and members of your structure for deciding to join our movement and support our campaign,”
“The Chief of Staff will ensure your proper registration into the Labour Party. Fortunately, our primaries are approaching, and it will be good for you to participate fully as members.
“One thing about our party is that we do not discriminate between old and new members. The moment you join, you enjoy the same rights and privileges as everyone else.
“That is one of the enduring strengths of our party. We remained steadfast while others defected from one platform to another. Today, many of those individuals are politically stranded.” Otti added.
Present during the visit were the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribeole; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, PhD; and the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu.