Abia State Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has once again reaffirmed his unwavering belief that power ultimately belongs to God, urging the people of Abia not to entertain fear or anxiety about a return to the State’s undesirable past.
The Governor made this declaration on Saturday during the Unity Chapel’s Sabbath Worship and Musical concert programme, held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, under the theme, “Worship the Lord in the Beauty of His Holiness.”
In response to the sermon delivered earlier, Governor Otti addressed concerns raised by the preacher of the day, who had described him as a man with a divine mandate given to him by God for the sake of the people. The preacher had also expressed the worry among some members of his congregation regarding the activities and claims of certain opposition elements, who have expressed intentions to reclaim power in 2027.
Reacting, Governor Otti reassured the people that there is no cause for panic, declaring that since power belongs to God, no human effort can overturn His will.
“I want to also thank the pastor for the sermon today. Very instructive… For us, I’d like to assure you, pastor, I’d like to assure you, all the people that are here, that nobody should panic.
“I’ve always said so. That power belongs to God, so He gives it to whom He wills. Ten million people cannot move a needle if God wants to go in a particular direction.
“Ten million people can also not help anyone that God has not chosen to help. So, I’ve always maintained that people should not panic. And in any case, like the pastor said, this is a divine mission,” Governor Otti stated, while acknowledging that there can be affliction left, right, and center.
The Governor paid glowing tribute to former Vice President of Nigeria under the military administration of Ibrahim Babangida (1985–1986), Navy Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe (Rtd), who was present at the worship.
Gov. Otti noted that Commodore Ukiwe has played a significant role in his life and family, including serving as the chairman at his wedding 33 years ago. The Governor commended him for the values and legacy he represents for Abia State, Nigeria, and Africa at large, emphasizing that his exemplary service to the nation remains worthy of emulation.
The preacher of the day, Pastor Kennedy C. Iheoma, President of the Aba North Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, delivered a powerful and spirit-filled message, drawing his Bible reading from the Holy Scriptures, Acts chapter 28, verses 1 to 6.
In his sermon, Pastor Iheoma emphasized that a man who carries a divine mandate cannot be hindered, not even by the fiercest opposition. He declared that not even a poisonous snake can stop a man whose assignment is ordained by God, like the venom of a viper did not stop Apostle Paul.
Addressing the Governor, he affirmed that he is on a divine mission – not for personal gain, but for the transformation of countless lives. He noted that the Governor’s leadership has brought relief, hope, and joy to thousands of individuals and families, many of whom are continually lifting him in prayers, asking God not to allow a return to the painful past they have left behind.
Pastor Iheoma further encouraged the Governor not to be troubled by challenges or storms along the way. The man of God noted that God remains fully in control and will direct every storm in such a way that it ultimately leads to the right destination.
Governor Otti was joined in the worship by his amiable wife, Her Excellency, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, his siblings and in-laws, the National Secretary of the Labour Party, Sen. Darlington Nwokocha, the Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Austin Okezie Nmeregini, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Ms. Sharon Dimanche, Commissioners, and other top government functionaries.
Ctz. UKOHA, NJOKU UKOHA
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State.
April 4th, 2026.
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