From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has commended President Bola Tinubu and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu for their exemplary performances in their respective roles.
Otti made the commendation during a courtesy visit by Senator Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, and former Senator Chris Adighije, who represented Abia Central Senatorial District, at his residence in Nvosi, Isialangwa South Local Government Area, on Sunday, June 8, 2025.
Otti expressed his commitment to supporting President Tinubu’s courageous and necessary economic decisions, particularly the removal of the fuel subsidy, which he described as a long-standing scam.
“When you talk about supporting President Tinubu, the president and I are very good friends, and our friendship predates party politics and current positions; we agree on so many issues, and as is natural, we know where we disagree.
“But, when you talk about the economy, what Mr President is doing has always been my position for a long time.
“So, it requires somebody with courage to remove that subsidy, and I am in support of it. We have behaved in an irresponsible manner for a very long time. And, when you have years of irresponsible behaviour, the correction would be tough, difficult, and painful. It is the correction that we are going through now; if we don’t lose faith, we will eventually get it right.
“So, talking about supporting the president, it’s a no-brainer; I will continue to support him because it is the same administration,” Otti added.
Otti commended Kalu for the work he did as Governor of Abia State, emphasising that he is using his time to work for the people and not to engage in conflicts.
Governor Otti recalled how his late mother was a strong supporter of Kalu and lauded him for his achievements in road construction, particularly in Aba, during his tenure as governor.
“I commend you for the good works you did in the state, especially in the area of construction of roads in Aba; it is still the same template we are using. I can assure you that the template is not wrong. You fix the place that generates the revenue, the revenue will come, and you use it to fix other places,” he explained.
Otti revealed that a businessman in Aba donated ₦200 million to support the state government’s efforts in constructing and reconstructing roads in the city.
Kalu, in his remarks, commended Otti for his outstanding performance, describing the governor as a friend with whom he cannot play politics.
He thanked Otti for the reconstruction of the Umuahia-Ohafia Highway, stating, “I ‘flew’ (rode) from Igbere to the governor’s residence with ease.
“You are my friend for life; you are my brother for life. Whether you are running an election or not running an election, that brotherhood must be maintained. You have done well for our state. Thank you very much…
“I want to make it clear to you: you have done well, and the state will continue to grow under your leadership.
“I know Abians know what is good for them. They are the only people who will determine who leads their state. When the people feel good, you don’t leave your best; you go for your best.”
Kalu, while declaring his support for Governor Otti, urged him to support President Tinubu, stating that he wants him to remain close to the president without necessarily leaving his party.
Senator Adighije said he is proud to be an Abian, adding that he made no mistake in supporting Otti and would continue to do so, stressing that it is not about partisan politics but the progress of the state.
He joined Senator Kalu in appealing to the governor to support President Tinubu, who he said is performing well at the national level.
