Otti, however, vowed that henceforth, leaders that will lead Abia State will emerge through credible elections
By Kehinde Okeowo
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti has said unlike him, many former Abia governors did not emerge through the popular will of the people, but through manipulation of the elections.
He made the allegation recently at Wesley Methodist Church, Umuekwule Afugiri, Umuahia, during the thanksgiving service for the successful burial of Mrs Victoria Nkolika Onwuneme.
The governor said his administration is resolute in ending corruption, divisive and clannish system of governance in the state.
He also vowed that, henceforth, leaders that will lead Abia State would emerge through credible elections.
Speaking at the event, Otti said, “For the first time in several years, the Abia people installed their own government. And I said it without any fear of contradiction because I am from here.
“I know that a lot of people who have sat on the seat that I am sitting now didn’t come through the ballot box but through manipulations.
“I believe that Abia people are now resolute in saying that enough was enough. Going forward, we have to install our leaders ourselves.”
He further assured people of Abia State that his government was practicing good governance and ensuring equitable distribution of democracy dividends to all parts of the state.
He also said he was not interested in state or local government of origin but believed that anybody who lives and pays their tax in the state is an “Abian”.
He went on to thank the church for the prayers and support they were giving his administration.
Otti, was accompanied to the thanksgiving service by top members of his cabinet and some legislators.