Eric Patrick
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, on Saturday, praised Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti for his impressive developmental efforts in the state and commended him for honoring Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who represents the Abia South Senatorial Zone.
He suggested that Otti could receive a lavish celebration should he decide to join the All Progressives Congress.
Akpabio made the statement during the 70th birthday celebration hosted by the Abia State Government in tribute to Abaribe, a former Deputy Governor of the state.
He portrayed Otti as a benevolent leader whose kindness is making a significant difference in the lives of the people of Ndi Abia.
Akpabio said, “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.
“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 hailed Abaribe for his integrity and commitment to his constituents, recalling about Abaribe’s courageous choice to act as surety for Nnamdi Kanu.
He said, “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.
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“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.”
The Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, also congratulated Abaribe on his birthday, describing him as a fearless and courageous leader worthy of celebration.
Otti said, “This celebration is not politically motivated. I am committed to honouring Abians who deserve recognition.
“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.”