Uzodinma Okpara, the son of the former premier of the defunct Eastern Region, Michael Okpara, on Wednesday, announced his full support for Governor Alex Otti.

Mr Okpara, a former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Abia, spoke at a news briefing in his country home, Umuegwu Ohuhu in Umuahia North LGA. He also declared his support for Mr Otti’s re-election in 2027 and urged well-meaning Abia people to rally behind him and his administration.

Mr Okpara applauded Mr Otti for emulating the late premier’s leadership style, which prioritised public service, economic development, and food security.

“I will campaign for Otti, and I will mobilise as many people as possible to join me in that campaign,” Mr Okpara said.

He said that Otti has been at the forefront of a remarkable initiative to reconstruct the state’s infrastructure. According to him, Mr Otti’s commitment to the progress of the state was not just evident, but also palpable.

He listed Mr Otti’s numerous achievements, especially in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and human capital development.

Mr Okpara highlighted the positive impact of those developments, saying that “families are enjoying a better life now, while businesses are thriving with improved infrastructure”.

He added, “Otti has laid and is still laying the foundation for a prosperous Abia. Advocacy for continued development and support for forthcoming projects is essential.”

Obi Aguocha, the lawmaker representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South federal constituency, said Mr Okpara’s endorsement of the governor gave him a moral boost as a lawmaker.

Mr Aguocha lauded Mr Otti for his outstanding accomplishments across various sectors, describing him as “Godsent to Abia”.

He said that the governor came with a clear vision to rebuild Abia.

(NAN)