Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti has expressed appreciation to the people of the state for heeding to his call when he pleaded to them not to join the ongoing Nationwide hardship protest. He also mentioned that he is saddened by the loss of lives and properties during the protest.
Addressing a congregation on Saturday, 3rd August during Sabbath worship at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Aba, Otti went further to explain why obstructing people’s businesses would not solve the problems the protesters seek to address.
While speaking to Abians during a state-wide broadcast on Wednesday, July 31, the Governor had admitted citizen’s right to peaceful protest but also reminded them that some unscrupulous elements might take advantage of the protest to cause mayhem in the state.
Speaking to the congregation, Otti said, “I want to thank and appreciate you and all Abia people who listened to my plea not to take to the streets, disrupt services and activities or potentially cause harm.
"The reason is not that the present conditions are not challenging. I acknowledge the difficulties we face today, but two wrongs cannot make a right. Many of our people rely on daily earnings and patronage. Like traders, drivers, keke riders and barbers who put food on their tables based on their daily income.”
He also said, “My plea was for us to discuss matters calmly. I want to thank my Abia people for listening to that call. This does not mean we lack the right to protest, but there are more constructive ways to do so. I assure you that our government has heard not only what you have said but also what you have not said.
“As I arrived, I noticed the poor condition of School Road, be rest assured, it will be fixed soon,” Otti said.
He also appreciated the Church for supporting him since 2015 when he first vied for the position to become the Abia state governor as well as the support they have been giving to his administration. He encouraged them to keep praying for the government.
The Governor was joined in the church service by the lawmaker representing Aba Central State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Ucheonye Stephen; Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Affairs, Apostle K.C. Wiper; Mayor of Aba South, Hon. Uche Nwogu; Abia State Acting Chairman of the Labour Party, Emmanuel Nwaeze Otti and many others.
The Resident Pastor, Ifeanyichukwu Nwaoguikpe during his sermon titled “Living out the Christian Slogan”, encouraged the members of the church to preach the gospel of God and everlasting life to everyone.
While telling them there will be a second coming of Jesus Christ, he urged the congregation to prepare their hearts and souls through their individual lifestyles. He equally narrated the story of the “Good Samaritan” in the Bible and encouraged the church to help those who are in need.
Highlight of the church service was intercessory prayers for the governor, his supporters, his team and the state at large.
