UMUAHIA, Abia State — The Abia Patriots, a non-partisan coalition of indigenes of Abia State, have congratulated Governor Alex Otti on what they described as a wave of national and international recognition for his administration, while calling on eligible residents to register for their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a press statement signed by its Secretary General, Mazi Adindu Madumere, the group said Abia had, within three years, moved “from the margins to the spotlight” through reforms in governance, infrastructure, power, healthcare, and fiscal management.
According to the group, Governor Otti’s recent public lecture at the University of Northampton in the United Kingdom showcased Abia as a model for unity, fiscal discipline, and transformational governance.
The coalition also referenced the governor’s presentation at Invest Lagos 3.0, where he outlined plans for 24-hour electricity in nine local government areas, including Aba, describing the initiative as a step toward attracting investment and boosting industrial development.
The group further highlighted the administration’s proposed world-class Akwete weaving hub, saying the initiative would preserve cultural heritage, empower women, and position the state’s textile industry for global competitiveness.
On governance, the Abia Patriots claimed the state had improved from 17th to fourth in budget transparency rankings, reduced its debt profile by more than 70 percent, delivered 414 roads covering about 800 kilometres, recruited 1,000 health workers, and maintained regular salary payments.
While commending the governor, the group urged him not to relent in pursuing fiscal discipline, infrastructure development, and people-centred governance.
The coalition also appealed to eligible Abia residents to take advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing it as the final registration window before the 2027 elections.
Expressing concern over what it said was Abia’s low number of registered voters, the group encouraged residents to register for their PVCs, mobilise others to do the same, and participate actively in the next general election.
“The ballot is the bridge between today’s progress and tomorrow’s Abia. Do not let apathy steal it,” the statement read.
The statement concluded with the group reaffirming its support for Governor Otti and what it described as the continued progress of Abia State.
