In a recent media engagement, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, clarified that the tenure of the current local government chairmen and councillors will not end in November 2026, as previously speculated. Instead, he confirmed that their terms will extend until 2028.

The governor addressed the issue during a chat with the people of Abia, emphasizing that the speculation surrounding the tenure was unfounded. He explained that the local government structure had undergone a significant change, with the Abia State House of Assembly amending the law that governs the tenure of elected officials. Previously, local government executives served a two-year term, but this has now been changed to four years.

Governor Otti stated, "Before the election, we went to the House of Assembly to amend that law and the House of Assembly gave the local government Mayors and their Councillors four years and that was even before the election." This amendment means that the new four-year term applies to the current officeholders, and the law cannot be applied retrospectively.

The governor's remarks come ahead of the upcoming chairmanship and councillorship elections scheduled for November 2, 2024. The clarification aims to quell any confusion regarding the future of the local government executives in Abia State.

In addition to discussing the tenure of local government officials, Governor Otti also touched on the pressing issue of public health. He expressed concern over the increasing cases of serious health conditions such as cancer, kidney failure, brain tumors, and strokes among young Nigerians. Otti urged the citizens of Abia to adopt preventive measures, particularly by being cautious about their dietary choices.

As the state prepares for the upcoming elections and addresses public health challenges, Governor Otti's statements reflect a commitment to transparency and the well-being of Abia residents.