Stop Campaigning for Tinubu, Fix State Infrastructure First—Alex Otti Tells Governors

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in politics
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Umuahia, August 22, 2026 — Abia State Governor Alex Otti has called on his counterparts in the South-East to prioritise the repair of depleted state infrastructure instead of focusing energy on campaigning for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

Speaking during a recent press briefing captured by News Central, Otti emphasized that the region’s governors should channel their efforts into addressing critical infrastructure challenges within their states.

The remarks, which have gained significant traction online, reflect his consistent stance that governance and development must take precedence over premature political mobilization ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Governance First, Politics Later

Otti, who has repeatedly stressed the importance of delivery over partisan positioning, used the platform to urge regional leaders to confront the visible decay in roads, public facilities and other essential infrastructure that affect the daily lives of citizens.

His message comes amid ongoing discussions among some South-East governors and leaders about supporting the incumbent president, citing federal projects and increased fiscal allocations to states.

The Abia governor has previously distanced himself from claims of a collective regional endorsement.

In earlier media interactions, he maintained that no single governor could speak for the entire South-East and that the ultimate decision on the presidency rests with Nigerian voters at the ballot box.

A Consistent Focus on Results

Since assuming office, Otti has built a reputation for prioritizing infrastructure renewal, fiscal discipline, and service delivery in Abia.

His administration has highlighted road reconstructions, improved power supply in parts of the state, and other developmental strides as evidence that focused governance yields tangible results.

Observers note that the latest comments align with this approach. By publicly advising fellow governors to concentrate on fixing local challenges rather than early campaign activities, Otti appears to be reinforcing a message that leaders should first deliver on their primary mandates before engaging in national political contests.

Regional Context and Public Reaction

The South-East has seen increased federal infrastructure investments in recent years, including road projects, railway rehabilitation, and the establishment of the South East Development Commission.

While some leaders have pointed to these developments as reasons for political alignment, others, including segments of the public, continue to call for greater attention to state-level responsibilities.

The video of Otti’s remarks has circulated widely on social media, drawing both praise for its emphasis on accountability and debate over the timing and implications for regional politics.

As conversations about 2027 intensify, Otti’s intervention serves as a reminder that many citizens expect governors to prioritize the immediate needs of their states—better roads, functional public services, and improved living conditions—over early endorsements and political maneuvering.

Whether other South-East governors will heed the call remains to be seen. For now, the Abia governor has made his position clear: the work of fixing depleted infrastructure should come first.

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