‘Don’t Waste Money on 2027 Campaigns’ — Abia Pensioners Tell Gov Otti, Cite Performance and Unpaid Gratuities

Retirees say governor’s record will win votes, warn against poll manipulation and remind government of outstanding gratuity promise.

Retirees in Abia State have urged Governor Alex Otti to avoid spending public funds on political campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections, saying his performance in office should be enough to earn voters’ support.

The group, operating under the name Concerned Abia Pensioners, made the appeal during their bi-weekly meeting in Umuahia on Thursday, where they also cautioned against any attempt to manipulate the outcome of the next governorship poll.

Speaking through their coordinator, Emeka Okezie, the pensioners said it would be difficult for anyone to “rig out” the governor in 2027 if current governance standards are maintained.

“The Governor should not waste money campaigning. He has done more than expected within the space of less than three years,” Okezie said.

Reminder Over Unpaid Gratuities

While commending the governor’s performance, the retirees reminded the state government of a promise made in 2025 to clear outstanding gratuities owed to them.

They recalled years of hardship under previous administrations, which they attributed to the non-payment of pensions and retirement benefits.

The group expressed hope that the Otti administration would fulfil its commitment to settle the arrears.

Warning Against Political Interference

The pensioners also warned politicians against what they described as alleged plans to influence the political direction of the state ahead of 2027, insisting that such efforts would fail.

They did not name any individuals or groups but said Abia voters were now more alert and determined to protect their mandate.

Appeal Over Locked NUP Office

The retirees appealed to the state government to intervene in a dispute involving the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) in Abia State.

According to them, the outgoing NUP leadership has kept the union’s office locked for years, forcing pensioners to hold their meetings in open spaces.

They asked the government to help ensure the office is reopened to allow pensioners meet under proper conditions.