Former councillors in Abia State who recently received their arrears from Governor Alex Otti have pledged their support for his re-election ahead of the 2027 general election.
The group also endorsed Chima Anyaso of the Labour Party as their consensus candidate for the Bende Federal Constituency seat in 2027.
The decision was reached during a meeting held at Anyaso’s family home in Igbere on Monday, where the councillors, under the leadership of their state coordinator, Tony Agbanyim, expressed readiness to collaborate with key stakeholders to sustain the current administration and ensure its continuity beyond 2027.
Anyaso emphasised the need for equity in the zoning arrangement within Bende Local Government Area, noting that it is the turn of Bende North, particularly Umunna, to produce the next representative in the House of Representatives.
According to him, he stepped aside during the 2023 elections to allow fairness, stressing that the southern bloc had held the position for eight years.
He said, “At the appropriate time, I will respond to your call for me to run for Bende federal constituency seat in 2027. I can assure you that I will give our people quality representation if elected and sustain my support for Governor Otti’s administration.
“I also appreciate Governor Otti for fulfilling his promise to the councillors by paying the arrears of their entitlements. It shows he is a listening leader who has exhibited the type of governance Abians are yearning for.
“Your decision as former councillors to support the re-election of the governor is a step in the right direction, and I promise to support your bid to ensure Governor Otti continues his good administration beyond 2027.”
The former councillors, who also operate under the “Otti or Nothing” movement, unanimously adopted Anyaso, citing his capacity, credibility, and track record.
They said their decision followed a careful assessment of his leadership qualities and engagement with stakeholders.
Several members, including Godwin Ndom, who was elected between 1999 and 2002, commended Otti for clearing long-standing arrears owed to former councillors, describing the gesture as unprecedented and a sign of responsive leadership.
They noted that some beneficiaries had lost their lives while waiting for the payments, making the intervention both timely and significant.
A former councillor who represented Bende Ward A between 2008 and 2010, Okorie Ukaonu, said the group was impressed by Anyaso’s vision and competence, adding that the constituency deserves effective and people-oriented representation at the National Assembly.
Other speakers echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the rotational principle between Bende North and South as a key factor in their endorsement.
They maintained that after eight years of representation from Bende South, it is only fair for Bende North to have its turn.
The former councillors also pledged to mobilise grassroots support across communities to ensure both the re-election of Otti and the success of Anyaso’s anticipated candidacy in 2027.
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