Former Deputy Governor of Abia State, Rt. Hon. Ude Oko Chukwu, has appealed for calm, unity and political maturity across the state following the recent meeting of former Abia governors and their aides, where they reportedly expressed opposition to the re-election of Governor Alex Chioma Otti.
In a press release issued on Saturday, the former deputy governor struck a conciliatory and statesmanlike tone, warning that Abia does not need political upheaval at a time when the state is witnessing unprecedented development under the current administration.
According to Ude Oko Chukwu, while political differences are normal in a democratic setting, Abians must place the collective interest of the state above personal or factional ambitions.
“Abia State does not need political upheaval at this moment. What our people need is development, stability and continuity,” he said.
The former deputy governor noted that in just over two years, the Otti administration has delivered visible and impactful projects across the state, restoring public confidence in governance and repositioning Abia on the national development map.
He stressed that roads, public infrastructure, fiscal discipline, and renewed investor confidence are already redefining Abia’s future, making it imperative for all political actors to support the ongoing transformation rather than distract it with unnecessary political hostilities.
Ude Oko Chukwu further urged both past and present political leaders to jettison acrimony and work together in the best interest of Abia, regardless of party affiliation or personal grievances.
“This is not the time for division. This is the time for cooperation. We must all come together to support what is working,” he said; “except if the whole essence of our politics is not service delivery/development of our state; unless it’s about lining our families from Abia or part of Abia resources”.
In a direct endorsement of Governor Otti’s performance, the former deputy governor stated that the achievements of the current administration speak for themselves and are widely acknowledged by Abians across the state.
“The governor is doing well without doubt. Almost all Abians agree on this. So I think the best thing for all of us is to support him and allow him to do more for the state,” Ude Oko Chukwu said.
He also invoked spiritual and democratic principles in his appeal, reminding political stakeholders that power ultimately comes from God and the people.
“Power comes from God, and at this moment God has given it to Otti. Let us support him and move Abia State forward,” he added.
Political analysts believe Ude Oko’s intervention is a significant voice of moderation at a time when Abia’s political climate is becoming increasingly charged, as the 2027 elections draw closer.
By choosing peace over confrontation, the former deputy governor has positioned himself as a bridge-builder, calling on Abians to protect the stability that is driving the state’s current development momentum.
