The much-awaited congratulatory message from Abia State Governor Dr Alex Otti to his predecessor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, has arrived after some days he was announced as Nigerian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain.
Drum Africa gathered that there were serious negative reactions of perceived political bitterness that may have been overstretched after the Abia government house went quiet on Ikpeazu’s appointment for some days, leading to questions.
Most of the reactions that went viral online tried to question the personality of the governor and his ability to let go of politics when it matters most, while some others were of the opinion that the governor has the right to congratulate anyone when he deems it necessary and right.
On the evening of Monday, the 9th of March, 2026, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser to Governor Otti on Media and Publicity, through a statement titled “Governor Otti Felicitates With Dr Ikpeazu on His Appointment as Ambassador”, responded after three days that Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, had made the official announcement on the 6th of March, 2026.
The statement by Ekeoma reads fully, “The Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr Alex Otti, OFR, has felicitated with the immediate past Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, on his appointment and posting as the Nigerian Ambassador to Spain.
“In a goodwill message to felicitate with the ex-governor, Governor Otti described the appointment as an opportunity for Dr Ikpeazu to serve the nation at the diplomatic level while protecting the interest of Nigerians in Spain.
“Governor Otti, while thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment, requested the Federal Government to provide Dr Ikpeazu and other newly appointed ambassadors all necessary support to succeed in their diplomatic assignments.
“Finally, Governor Otti, on behalf of his family, the government and people of Abia State, wishes Dr Ikpeazu a fruitful and impactful service to the nation.”
