Ohanaeze passes confidence vote in Otti, warns against toxic opposition politics

By Steve Oko

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has passed a resounding vote of confidence on Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, citing what it described as deliberate and impactful governance.

This is as it issued a stern warning to opposition figures in the state against inflammatory rhetoric and misinformation, cautioning that such conduct could trigger political instability.

Addressing a press conference in Umuahia on Thursday, the Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Abia State chapter, Godwin Adindu, stressed that while opposition remains vital in a democracy, it must be constructive and solution-driven.

“Democracy thrives on alternative voices that provide direction and hold those in power accountable. But resorting to mudslinging and misinformation is dangerous radicalism that must be discouraged,” Adindu said.

Flanked by the Assistant Publicity Secretary, Chief Obinna Ibe, Adindu said Ohanaeze could not remain silent on issues affecting Ndigbo, including governance and leadership.

He noted that the organisation’s vote of confidence in Gov. Otti followed a critical assessment of developments in Abia over the past three years.

According to him, the state has recorded “tremendous transformation” across key sectors, including healthcare, education, infrastructure, and the civil service.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo is today passing a vote of commendation and confidence on Governor Alex Otti for being deliberate and intentional in improving the standard of living of Abia residents,” he declared.

The group particularly highlighted “the ongoing transformation of Aba,” describing the commercial hub as central to Igbo economic life.

“Aba remains a cardinal city for Ndigbo. The governor’s massive infrastructural renewal of the city has earned widespread admiration. Today, Otti represents the Igbo spirit of innovation, resilience and enterprise,” Adindu said.

Ohanaeze also commended the administration’s reforms in the civil service, noting the regular payment of salaries and pensions, which it said had restored confidence among workers.

It further praised Otti’s efforts to improve the business climate, making Abia more attractive for trade and investment.

On cultural revival, the group lauded the establishment of the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, as well as policies promoting Igbo identity, including compulsory teaching of the Igbo language in schools and the adoption of native attire by government officials on designated days.

“These initiatives are critical to preserving our heritage and promoting the Igbo identity,” the group noted.

Ohanaeze said its commendation should serve as encouragement for the governor to sustain people-oriented policies, reaffirming its commitment to supporting leaders who advance the collective interest of Ndigbo.