By Momodu Favour

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has called on church leaders to mobilise their congregations to participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Otti made the appeal on Sunday at the Assemblies of God Church, located at 123 Tenant Road in Aba, during the 28th anniversary of the church’s annual Zam Jehovah Nights programme themed “Breaking Barriers.”

The governor stressed the importance of civic engagement, noting that the forthcoming general elections require active participation from citizens, particularly Christians, to sustain ongoing development in the state.

“Voting remains the surest way to ensure that the good things happening in our state continue,” Otti said, urging eligible residents who have not registered to take advantage of the opportunity.

Reflecting on his upbringing, the governor noted a shift in perspective regarding the role of believers in politics. He explained that while religious teachings in the past discouraged political involvement, current realities demand active participation.

“If believers shy away from taking responsibility, those who do not believe will take the centre stage,” he stated, appealing to church leaders to encourage their members to register and vote.

Otti expressed concern that many residents in Aba were yet to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), while some registered voters often fail to turn out during elections. He emphasised that increased voter participation is critical to maintaining the state’s development trajectory.

The governor also congratulated the church on sustaining the Zam Jehovah Nights programme for 28 years and appreciated its support for his administration. He further thanked the congregation for presenting him with a sculptured white horse, which he described as a symbol of strength and excellence.

In his remarks, the Senior Pastor, Ogboso Ejindu, said the Zam Jehovah Nights programme attracts participants from across Nigeria and beyond, highlighting its impact over nearly three decades.

Ejindu commended Otti’s leadership, describing him as a progressive and committed governor who has begun dismantling long-standing barriers to development in Abia State.

He also dismissed criticisms that the administration was focused mainly on repainting infrastructure, stating that residents appreciate the visible changes.

“Our theme this year is ‘Breaking Barriers.’ God has given us a leader who is hardworking and people oriented, and he has started breaking barriers that lasted for decades,” the cleric said.

The event featured prayers for the governor, his administration, and the state, with several top government officials in attendance, including Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Kingsley Nwokeocha, Mayor of Aba North LGA, Timothy Iheke, and Director-General of the Greater Aba Development Authority, Uche Ukeje.

The Independent National Electoral Commission continues to conduct Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) to enable eligible Nigerians aged 18 and above, as well as those who have not previously registered, to obtain their PVCs.

The exercise also allows voters to update or transfer their registration details ahead of upcoming elections.

Stakeholders, including religious and community leaders, have been urged to intensify awareness efforts to boost participation, strengthen democratic processes, and ensure broader voter turnout nationwide.