Senate President Godswill Akpabio has praised Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, for his remarkable developmental strides, but said the governor can only be celebrated properly when he dumps Labour Party for the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.
Speaking at the 70th birthday celebration organised by the Abia State Government in honour of Abaribe, a former Deputy Governor of Abia, Akpabio described Otti as a generous leader whose goodwill is making a positive impact on Abia people.
“Otti’s decision to honour Abaribe despite political differences shows he understands politics and has endeared himself to 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 added.
Akpabio hinted that Otti would receive even greater recognition if he joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“I have seen the good work you are doing, but I cannot publicly commend you because you are in the Labour Party — you are still labouring. The day you join the APC, you will hear my full praise and see how I will celebrate you,” he said.
He also commended Otti’s political strategy in celebrating Abaribe, stating:
“By honouring Abaribe, you are not just celebrating him, you are making a strategic political move. Through Abaribe, you have won the hearts of the people of Abia South.
“When you seek re-election, you will see that this was money well spent. If you realise how highly we regard Abaribe in Nigeria, you will know you are honouring a man you will never regret celebrating. Congratulations, my governor.”
Akpabio also hailed Abaribe’s integrity and commitment to his people, recalling his bold 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 shocked. They asked why a senator would take such a risk. When I asked you, you said you believed so strongly in his cause that even if he fled, you were willing to go to prison on his behalf.
“Today, we celebrate a man of astute integrity and grace. God’s grace has brought him this far,” Akpabio stated.
He added, “This is why I am here — not necessarily for Abaribe. I have celebrated him in the Senate. But I came to join you, Otti, in giving glory to God for the life of a man worth emulating, a role model for Ndi Igbo and Nigerian youths, a man of great integrity.”
