By Bayero Ade
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his independence from external influences, stating that his only “godfather” is God in heaven.
Governor Otti made the statement during a Thanksgiving service held at St. James Methodist Church in Umuda, Isingwu, Umuahia North Council, organized by Hon. Smart Ihuoma, the Mayor of the council.
The Labour Party governor highlighted the challenges politicians face when elected into office through the support or funding of political benefactors, stressing that such sponsorship often leads to undue interference.
“One of the major challenges in politics is that when people enter office with the financial or political backing of others, it becomes easy for those individuals to dictate their actions,” Otti said. “But I can assure you that we are standing firm and independent. Our only godfather is the God in heaven. While we operate an open-door policy and are open to suggestions, such inputs will never be treated as orders.”
Otti further assured that his administration’s performance will raise the bar for governance in Abia State, making it difficult for those without the capacity to vie for political office in the future. He referenced Dr. Chris Ngige’s transformative leadership in Anambra State in 1999, which, according to him, set a new standard for subsequent administrations.
“Since that time, the people of Anambra have remained vigilant in safeguarding their democracy to prevent a return to unfavorable leadership,” Otti remarked.
The governor expressed satisfaction with the increasing participation of citizens in governance and reiterated his commitment to transparency and accountability through regular media engagements.
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