Otti has repeatedly stated his intention to withdraw from active politics after his tenure, insisting he harbours no presidential, vice-presidential, or senatorial ambitions thereafter.

The clerics made their appeal during a courtesy visit to the governor at his office on Tuesday. The delegation was led by the immediate past PFN State Chairman, Chikezie Elekwa.

‘Let the People Decide’

Elekwa said the fellowship had taken note of the governor’s plan to step away from politics and urged him to allow the public determine his political future.

“Some time ago, we heard you say that after your second term, you would quit politics. Please, Your Excellency, do not make that decision alone.

“Let the public decide what happens next,” he said.

He further assured the governor that the PFN had begun mobilising support ahead of the 2027 elections, stressing that the Christian body has members across all local governments and wards in the state.

According to him, the fellowship is prepared to back the administration fully and ensure continuity of what he described as progress in the state.

He also informed the governor that the new state chairman of the PFN, Dr Newlife Ugochukwu, was unable to attend due to ill health but conveyed the fellowship’s continued support.

Otti Responds

Responding, Otti thanked the PFN for its prayers and support over the years, acknowledging the role the Christian body played in his political journey.

“It is important to put it on record that the PFN supported this movement from the beginning — in 2015, 2019, and again in 2023. The Church stood firm, together with other fathers of faith,” he said.

The governor reiterated that his administration’s core mission is to restore the dignity of Abia people and reposition the state for sustainable development, noting that governance is a collective effort.

He also emphasised the importance of faith-based participation in governance, stating that leadership decisions must align with divine direction.

“As humans, we may have our own thoughts about when to step aside. But ultimately, we cannot speak when the Lord has not spoken,” he said.

Also present at the meeting were the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; the Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, Pastor Eno Jerry Eze; the Senior Special Assistant on Religious Matters, Apostle Kenneth Wiper; and the Director-General of the Strategic Communication Bureau, Onyebuchi Ememanka, among other officials.