Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Saturday praised Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for his developmental efforts in the state and for honouring Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who represents Abia South Senatorial Zone.
Speaking at Abaribe’s 70th birthday celebration, organised by the Abia State Government, Akpabio acknowledged Otti’s leadership and generosity, highlighting his positive impact on the welfare of Ndi Abia.
He further hinted that Otti would receive a grand celebration if he decided to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“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 further praised Otti’s political acumen, 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.
“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.”
Akpabio also lauded Abaribe’s integrity and devotion to his people, recalling his 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.
“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.”
Speaking at the event, Governor Alex Otti congratulated Enyinnaya Abaribe on his milestone birthday, praising him as a fearless and courageous leader deserving of celebration.
“This celebration is not politically motivated. I am committed to honouring Abians who deserve recognition,” Otti said.
“We are 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 your votes. I am not interested in them. By the way, have I told you I am running in 2027? I can return to where I came from. Some people claim I went to London for meetings — we have been holding meetings right here. They have simply run out of ideas,” Otti added.#Akpabio
