On Saturday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for his development efforts in the state and for honoring Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who represents Abia South Senatorial Zone.
He also suggested that a grand celebration could be in store for Otti if he decides to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Akpabio made these remarks during the 70th birthday celebration organized by the Abia State Government in honor of Abaribe, a former Deputy Governor of Abia State.
He described Otti as a generous leader whose actions are positively affecting the welfare of the people of Abia.
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“Otti’s decision to honor Abaribe, despite political differences, shows his political wisdom and has earned him the affection of the people of Abia,” Akpabio said. “Governor Alex Otti is like me. He will be generous to the people of Abia because he has a kind heart.”
He went on to praise Otti’s political strategy, noting: “By honoring Abaribe, you’re not just celebrating him; you’re making a smart political move. Through Abaribe, you’ve won the hearts of Abia South. When you seek re-election, you will see that this was a wise investment. If you understand how highly Abaribe is regarded in Nigeria, you’ll see that you’ve honored a man you will never regret celebrating. Congratulations, my governor.”
Akpabio further added, “I have seen the good work you are doing, but I can’t openly commend you because you’re in the Labour Party— you’re still ‘labouring.’ The day you join the APC, you’ll hear my full praise and see how I will celebrate you.”
Akpabio also lauded Abaribe’s integrity and commitment to his people, recalling Abaribe’s decision to stand as surety for Nnamdi Kanu.
“Abaribe is a man of sacrifice, a true son of Ndi Igbo. When you signed the bail bond for Nnamdi Kanu, people were stunned. They wondered why a senator would take such a risk. When I asked you, you said you believed in his cause so strongly that even if he fled, you were willing to go to prison on his behalf. Today, we celebrate a man of remarkable integrity and grace. God’s grace has brought him this far,” Akpabio remarked.
“This is why I am here—not just for Abaribe. I’ve celebrated him in the Senate. I’ve come to join you, Otti, in thanking God for the life of a man who is worth emulating, a role model for Ndi Igbo and Nigerian youths, a man of great integrity.”
Governor Alex Otti also spoke at the event, congratulating Abaribe on his significant birthday and describing him as a fearless and courageous leader deserving of celebration.
“This celebration is not politically motivated. I am committed to honoring Abians who deserve recognition,” Otti said.
“We’re here to celebrate a man of courage, selflessness, and truth. This is not a political gathering. Politicians think about the next election, but leaders think about the next generation. If you came here thinking about votes, keep them. I’m not interested. By the way, have I told you I am running in 2027? I can return to where I came from. Some people say I went to London for meetings—we’ve been holding meetings right here. They’ve just run out of ideas,” Otti added.
