ýýThe Abia State leadership of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has endorsed the re-election bid of Governor Alex Otti ahead of the 2027 governorship election. The forum commended his administration for what it described as the remarkable transformation of the state.
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ýThe forum made its position known on Thursday, October 22, 2026, during a courtesy visit to the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Caleb Ajagba, at Government House, Umuahia.
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ýBaba Lawal, state chairman, AYF, while speaking on behalf of the organisation, pledged the forum’s support for Governor Otti’s re-election, citing the administration’s achievements in infrastructure, security, healthcare, education and commerce.
ýLawal noted that the government’s policies and ongoing projects had renewed public confidence in governance and positioned Abia as an emerging model of development and inclusive leadership.
ýHe also reaffirmed the commitment of the Arewa community in the state to peaceful coexistence and sustained collaboration with the government to promote development, strengthen unity and preserve harmonious relations among residents of diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds.
ýResponding, Ajagba described Abia as a reference point for democratic governance, attributing the state’s transformation under Governor Otti to the Governor’s commitment to inclusive leadership, merit-based appointments, security and a people-oriented administration.
ýThe Chief of Staff commended the forum for its support during the 2023 governorship election, noting that the administration’s performance had demonstrated that good governance was achievable when competent leaders were entrusted with public responsibility.
ýHe stressed that the state government remained committed to treating all residents fairly, irrespective of ethnicity, religion or state of origin.
ýAjagba cited the appointment of non-indigenes to key positions, including the Head of Service, ýBenson Ojeikere, from Edo State and a Permanent Secretary, Sunday Jackson of Rivers State, as well as the recruitment of qualified personnel based on merit as evidence of the administration’s commitment to inclusiveness and equal opportunity.
He further emphasised that peace and security were indispensable to sustainable development, urging residents to support efforts aimed at maintaining stability and fostering cooperation across communities.
ýWhile appreciating the forum for its pledge of support ahead of the 2027 election, the Chief of Staff urged its members to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and ensure that their political decision to re-elect Governor Alex Otti is reflected at the ballot box.
ýHe assured the delegation of the state government’s continued support for residents who uphold peace, truth and responsible citizenship.
ýKenneth Wiper, Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Affairs, and other top government officials were present during the visit.