Clerics under the Abia State chapter of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria have appealed to Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, not to withdraw from politics after completing his second term in 2031, insisting that his future in public service should be decided by the people.

The appeal was made during a courtesy visit to the governor by PFN leaders led by the immediate past state chairman, Archbishop Chikezie Elekwa, at the Government House.

The clerics said they were concerned about the governor’s repeated public statements that he plans to retire from active politics after his tenure, with no intention of seeking higher or legislative office thereafter.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Elekwa urged the governor to leave the decision about his political future to the electorate rather than making a personal exit plan.

According to him, Otti’s leadership has attracted wide support across the state and should not be limited to a fixed personal timetable. He added that the fellowship had already begun grassroots mobilisation ahead of the next governorship election cycle and expressed confidence in delivering strong support.

He assured the governor of continued backing from PFN members across local governments and wards, stressing that the group remained committed to sustaining what he described as positive governance and reforms in the state.

Elekwa also informed the governor that the newly elected PFN state chairman, Dr Newlife Ugochukwu, was unable to attend due to health reasons but conveyed the fellowship’s full support for the administration.

Responding, Otti appreciated the clerics for their prayers and encouragement, noting that faith-based organisations played significant roles in his political journey over the years. He said their support from earlier election cycles helped sustain the reform movement that produced his administration.

The governor reiterated that his government’s primary objective is to restore the dignity of the people and reposition the state through collective effort and accountable leadership.

He also encouraged greater participation of people of faith in governance, saying politics should not be left only to those without strong moral convictions.

While acknowledging the request that he stay longer in politics, the governor maintained that such decisions would ultimately depend on divine direction, noting that human plans must align with God’s will.

Top government officials present at the meeting included the Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; the Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, Pastor Eno Jerry Eze; the Senior Special Assistant on Religious Matters, Apostle Kenneth Wiper; and the Director-General of the Strategic Communication Bureau, Onyebuchi Ememanka, among others.