Former elected councillors in Abia State have endorsed businessman and philanthropist, Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, as their consensus candidate for the Bende Federal House of Representatives seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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The endorsement was announced in Igbere, Bende Local Government Area of the state, where Anyaso hosted the former councillors. The group also reaffirmed its support for the re-election of Governor Alex Otti.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the State Coordinator and leader of the former councillors, Hon. Tony Agbayim, described Anyaso—popularly known as “Ofuji”—as a consistent supporter of communities across Abia, even without holding public office.
He noted that the councillors, many of whom served between 1999 and 2002, were united in their decision, expressing confidence that Anyaso’s impact would be greater if given the opportunity to serve in the National Assembly.
“We are with you 100 per cent. We will campaign and ensure your victory in the 2027 election,” Agbayim stated.
The group also commended Governor Alex Otti for his performance, describing his administration as one that has restored hope and good governance in Abia State.
“We will deploy all within our capacity to ensure Anyaso goes to Abuja and Governor Otti returns to Government House in 2027,” he added.
Responding, Anyaso expressed appreciation to the former councillors for their endorsement and confidence in his aspiration.
He praised Governor Otti’s leadership, noting that the administration has brought renewed hope and visible development to Abia people. He also commended the governor for clearing outstanding arrears owed to former elected councillors, many of whom had endured years of unpaid entitlements.
Anyaso expressed regret over the hardship faced by some councillors under past administrations, including those who reportedly lost their lives while awaiting their benefits.
He urged continued support for Governor Otti to sustain ongoing reforms and development across the state, describing the level of progress recorded in less than three years as unprecedented since Abia’s creation in 1991.
“Our state deserves people of integrity in public office. We must ensure that credible individuals are elected to represent the people,” he said.
Anyaso formally declared his intention to contest the Bende Federal Constituency seat in 2027, stating that the time has come for him to serve his people.
He also called for stronger collaboration among pro-government political groups, including “Otti Again 2027” and “Otti or Nothing 2027,” to ensure the governor’s re-election.
“I respected the principle of equity in 2023 and did not contest, but in 2027, we are ready and equipped to represent our people at the National Assembly,” he said.
The motion to adopt Anyaso as the consensus candidate was moved by the Coordinator of Former Councillors in Bende LGA, Hon. Godwin Uchenna Ndom, and seconded by Hon. Prince Kanu. It was unanimously ratified by members of the group.
The councillors also reaffirmed Governor Alex Otti as their sole candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Abia State.
