Abia Ex-Councillors Back Anyaso for Reps Seat, Declare Support for Otti’s 2027 Re-election

The Association of Elected Councillors of Abia State (1999–2022) has unanimously endorsed Abia-born entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, as its consensus candidate for the Bende Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 general elections.

The group, comprising former grassroots leaders and key stakeholders across wards in the state, announced the endorsement during a solidarity visit to Dr. Anyaso at his country home in Igbere.

Speaking on behalf of the association, the State Coordinator, Hon. Chief Tony Agbanyim, said the decision was informed by Dr. Anyaso’s consistent record of philanthropy, youth empowerment, and humanitarian interventions, despite not having held public office.

“We have watched with keen interest the impactful roles Dr. Anyaso has been playing in improving the lives of people at the grassroots through health outreach programmes, empowerment initiatives, and community development projects,” Agbanyim stated.

He added that the group’s support also aligns with its endorsement of Governor Alex Otti’s administration, which it described as transformative and people-oriented.

According to Agbanyim, “Governor Otti has redefined leadership in Abia State, restored public confidence in governance, and delivered tangible dividends of democracy. We are fully committed to his re-election in 2027.”

The association pledged to deploy its extensive grassroots network to mobilise support for both Dr. Anyaso’s bid for the House of Representatives and Governor Otti’s second term ambition.

Responding, Dr. Anyaso expressed appreciation for the endorsement, describing it as a call to greater service.

“This support, coming from grassroots leaders, is organic and deeply meaningful. It strengthens my resolve to continue serving the people,” he said.

Dr. Anyaso also urged Abians to sustain their support for Governor Otti, noting that the current administration has ushered in unprecedented development across the state.

He, however, apologised on behalf of past administrations for the hardship endured by former councillors due to unpaid entitlements, which he said contributed to avoidable losses among them.

In a major highlight of the event, Dr. Anyaso formally declared his intention to contest the Bende Federal Constituency seat in 2027.

“Having patiently waited for eight years in the interest of equity, I believe this is the right time to represent my people at the National Assembly. It is the turn of Umunna to produce the next representative, and I am ready to offer quality representation to Ndi Bende,” he declared.

He further pledged alignment between his “OTTI AGAIN 2027 Movement” and the “OTTI OR NOTHING” campaign championed by the former councillors, calling for unity ahead of the elections.

The endorsement was ratified through a motion moved by Hon. Godwin Uchendu Ndom and seconded by Hon. Prince Kalu, receiving unanimous approval from members present.