The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has urged political leaders across Nigeria to emulate the leadership style of Governor Alex Otti by channeling public resources toward the welfare of the people. Obi made this call during the 2025 Chrism Mass at Christ the King Catholic Church (CKC), Aba, where he joined Governor Otti and thousands of Catholic faithful to commemorate the solemn occasion.
Addressing the congregation, Peter Obi, who was honored with the traditional title “Okwute Ndi Nigeria” by Governor Otti, emphasized that the major challenge facing Nigeria is leadership failure. He appealed to the Church to continue in fervent prayers for the nation, while insisting that genuine transformation can only occur when leaders put the public interest above personal gain.
Governor Otti, in his address, expressed gratitude to the Church for its unwavering support over the years, noting that its role in his political journey dates back to 2014. He pledged to continue prioritizing the welfare of Abia people and supporting the Church, drawing inspiration from biblical scriptures such as Psalm 118:22, Matthew 21:42, and Acts 4:11 to affirm that Aba, once overlooked, is now becoming the cornerstone of the state’s development.
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In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to delivering people-oriented governance, highlighting that the ongoing cleanup and revitalization of Aba are just the beginning of a long-term plan to restore the city’s lost glory.
Bishop of Aba Diocese, Prof. Augustine Ndubueze Echema, in his homily, praised both Obi and Otti for gracing the Mass, lauding Governor Otti for his visible infrastructural transformation in Aba. The Bishop made particular mention of the opening of Port Harcourt Road, which has improved accessibility and reduced travel time for parishioners and residents along the corridor. In a light-hearted moment, he invited the Governor to return often, joking that he may one day be baptized as a Catholic like his wife.
The Chrism Mass drew several dignitaries including the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa; Hon. Aaron Uzodike of Aba North; Hon. Ucheonye Steven of Aba Central; Mayors Hon. Obilor Anyanwu and Hon. Timothy Iheke of Aba South and Aba North respectively; as well as former Aba North Mayor, Ide John Udeagbala, among others.
