Village heads in Umuoha, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State, have officially endorsed Governor Alex Otti, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe and Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu for re-election in 2027, declaring their collective support for continuity and the adoption of all Labour Party candidates.

The endorsement was announced following a strategic meeting between the traditional village heads of Umuoha and the Executive Mayor of Isiala Ngwa North, Hon. Ambassador Innocent Uruakpa, who hosted the delegation for discussions on governance, political representation and community development.

At the meeting, the village heads expressed satisfaction with the performance of Labour Party leaders and their elected representatives, insisting that political leadership should be judged by measurable achievements, commitment to the people and visible impact on communities.

Consequently, they unanimously adopted the following candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections:

  1. Dr. Alex C. Otti – Governor of Abia State, for another term.
  2. Senator Darlington Nwokocha – Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District.
  3. Hon. Ginger Onwusibe – Member representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
  4. Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu – Member representing Isiala Ngwa North State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly.

In a significant political statement, the village heads also addressed the emerging contest for the Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency seat, acknowledging that their brother, Ihuka, is among those aspiring for the position.

However, they maintained that their relationship with him would not override what they described as the need to support proven leadership, declaring their preference for the incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe.

According to the village heads, Onwusibe has distinguished himself through effective representation, accessibility, empowerment initiatives and interventions that have positively impacted communities across the constituency.

They stressed that political leadership should not be determined by sentiments, personal relationships or promises but by the capacity to deliver tangible results.

The traditional leaders equally applauded Governor Alex Otti for recognising Umuoha community by appointing one of its sons, Hon. Ambassador Innocent Uruakpa, as Executive Mayor of Isiala Ngwa North.

They described the appointment as a demonstration of inclusion, recognition and confidence in the people of Umuoha.

The village heads also commended Senator Darlington Nwokocha for his representation at the National Assembly and Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu for his contributions at the state legislative level, maintaining that continuity and cooperation among elected representatives remain essential to the development of Abia State.

Responding, Hon. Ambassador Innocent Uruakpa thanked the village heads for honouring his invitation and for their warm reception, constructive engagement and confidence in the Labour Party leadership.

He emphasised the importance of grassroots participation, sustained dialogue and collaboration between elected public office holders and traditional institutions in advancing the development agenda of the state.