Catholic Bishop Endorses Otti for Second Term, Applauds Achievements in Two Years

The Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Ukpong, has openly declared support for Governor Alex Otti’s re-election bid in 2027, describing the governor’s performance in the past two years as his strongest campaign tool.

Ukpong made the remarks on Sunday during a lunch he hosted in Otti’s honour at the Mater Dei Cathedral, Umuahia. He praised the governor for executing projects many thought impossible, including the rehabilitation of the Igwu (Omenuko) Bridge and the reconstruction of the Arochukwu–Ohafia Road.

“For the first time, Abians are proud to be Abians,” Ukpong said, recalling how the once-dilapidated Igwu Bridge had instilled fear in travellers for decades. “Today, nobody is scared of crossing that bridge. What I thought was impossible in my lifetime has now been made possible.”

The bishop also highlighted the transformation of the road to Arochukwu, which he said had long been notorious for its poor condition. According to him, Otti’s intervention has ended the popular saying that “there is no easy route to Aro.”

He further remarked that with the visible progress across the state, those eyeing the governorship seat in 2027 are “wasting their time.”

“The governor has campaigned for himself already through good works,” Ukpong declared. “Abians will vote for him, except those who don’t like good things.”

In his response, Governor Otti thanked the bishop for the recognition and assured that his administration would remain focused on service and accountability. He credited faith communities for their strong support during his election campaign and emphasized that leadership must be rooted in stewardship.

“We are dealing with the situation with the little resources available, paying off nearly 60% of the debts left by our predecessors while executing key projects—without borrowing,” Otti said.

He added that the recently approved \$263 million loan facility from development banks would be accessed only when necessary and managed responsibly.

The lunch was attended by Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu, Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly Austin Nmerigini, members of the State Executive Council, and other top government officials.