The Abia State chapter of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has declared its support for Governor Alex Otti’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 governorship election, praising his administration’s performance across key sectors.

The forum announced its position on Thursday, October 22, 2026, during a courtesy visit to the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, at Government House, Umuahia.

Speaking on behalf of the organisation, AYCF State Chairman Baba Lawal said the forum was backing Otti’s re-election in recognition of what it described as the administration’s achievements in infrastructure, security, healthcare, education and commerce.

Lawal said government policies and ongoing projects had strengthened public confidence in governance and contributed to Abia’s emergence as a developing model of inclusive leadership.

He also reaffirmed the Arewa community’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and cooperation with the state government, stressing the importance of unity and cordial relations among residents from different ethnic and religious backgrounds.

Responding, Ajagba described Abia as a reference point for democratic governance, attributing the state’s development efforts to Otti’s emphasis on inclusive leadership, merit-based appointments, security and people-oriented policies.

The Chief of Staff commended the forum for supporting Otti during the 2023 governorship election, adding that the administration’s performance had demonstrated the importance of competent leadership in public service.

He reiterated that the state government remained committed to treating all residents fairly, regardless of their ethnicity, religion or state of origin.

To illustrate the administration’s approach to inclusion, Ajagba cited the appointment of non-indigenes to senior public service positions, including Head of Service Benson Ojeikere, from Edo State, and Permanent Secretary Dr. Sunday Jackson, from Rivers State. He also pointed to the recruitment of qualified personnel based on merit.

Ajagba further stressed that peace and security were essential to sustainable development and called on residents to support efforts to maintain stability and strengthen cooperation across communities.

While welcoming the forum’s endorsement, he urged its members to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate in the 2027 election, saying their political preferences should be reflected through the ballot.

He assured the delegation that the state government would continue to support residents who promote peace, truth and responsible citizenship.

The Governor’s Special Assistant on Religious Affairs, Apostle Kenneth Wiper, and other senior government officials were present during the visit.