Easter: Otti urges Abians to embrace Godly acts of altruism

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has urged Abians and residents of the state to continue to embrace godly acts of altruism that, according to him, helped restore the state to its people during the 2023 general elections.

The governor made the call in his Easter message to the people of the state, which was endorsed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, and made available to journalists in Umuahia.

Otti also encouraged citizens to draw inspiration from the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the good of humanity. He commended the courage and commitment of millions of Abians who have continued to show support and solidarity with his administration in its efforts to reposition the state.

In his message of love and goodwill to residents, the governor expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to once again commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, whose victory over death he said brought eternal hope to humanity.

He reminded the people of the need to reflect on the supreme sacrifice made by Christ on the cross of Calvary for the redemption of mankind.

Otti also reassured Abians of his administration’s commitment to continue implementing people-oriented programmes and projects aimed at rebuilding the state and restoring its glory.

Governor Alex Otti with his wife, Priscilla during the service

Meanwhile, during a Sabbath worship and musical concert held at the Unity Chapel in the Banquet Hall of the Government House under the theme, “Worship the Lord in the Beauty of His Holiness,” the governor affirmed that his leadership is a divine mission and not driven by personal gain.

He reiterated his belief that power ultimately belongs to God and urged the people of the state not to entertain fear or anxiety about a return to what he described as the state’s undesirable past.

Responding to a sermon delivered by the preacher of the day, Pastor Kennedy C. Iheoma, President of the Aba North Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the governor reassured residents that there was no cause for panic over political developments.

“I want to thank the pastor for the sermon today. It was very instructive. I want to assure you, pastor, and all the people here that nobody should panic,” Otti said.

“I have always said that power belongs to God, and He gives it to whom He wills. Ten million people cannot move a needle if God wants something to go in a particular direction.

“Likewise, ten million people cannot help anyone that God has not chosen to help. So, people should not panic. As the pastor said, this is a divine mission,” he added.

The governor also paid tribute to former Vice President of Nigeria during the regime of retired General Ibrahim Babangida, Navy Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe (rtd), who attended the worship.

Otti noted that Ukiwe had played an important role in his personal life and family, including serving as chairman at his wedding 33 years ago. He praised the former naval officer for the values and legacy he represents for Abia State, Nigeria and Africa.

In his sermon, Pastor Iheoma, who preached from Acts 28:1–6, said a person carrying a divine mandate cannot be stopped by opposition or challenges.

He likened the situation to the biblical account of Apostle Paul surviving a viper’s bite, saying that divine assignments cannot be thwarted by adversity.

Iheoma also told the governor that his leadership had brought relief, hope and joy to many residents who continue to pray for his success.

The cleric encouraged Otti not to be troubled by challenges, stressing that God remains in control and will guide every situation toward the right outcome.

The governor was joined at the worship by his wife, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, family members, the National Secretary of the Labour Party, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, the Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Chief Austin Okezie Nmeregini, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, the Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Ms Sharon Dimanche, as well as commissioners and other top government officials.

Dr. Alex Otti, wife Priscilla and other congregants