Alex Otti also known as Alex Chioma Otti (born on February 18th, 1965) is a prominent Nigerian banker, economist, philanthropist and politician serving as the current Governor of Abia State in Nigeria. He is a candidate of the Labour Party and was declared winner of the 2023 general election on Wednesday by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after the resumption of the collation of results.

Education 

Otti obtained a Bachelor's degree in Economics from the University of Port Harcourt and later earned a Master's degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Lagos. He began his professional career in the banking sector, where he rose through the ranks due to his exceptional skills and dedication.

Career

He gained widespread recognition during his tenure as the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Diamond Bank Plc, one of Nigeria's leading financial institutions. Under his leadership, the bank experienced remarkable growth and expansion, earning several accolades for its innovative banking services and corporate governance practices.

Political Career

In addition to his successful banking career, Otti ventured into politics, running for the position of Governor of Abia State. He contested in the 2015 gubernatorial elections under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) party. Although he did not secure victory, his campaign garnered significant support, reflecting his popularity and influence in the region.

When Did Alex Otti Became The Governor Of Abia State?

Alex Otti, the Labour Party (LP) candidate, emerged victorious in the Abia state governorship poll, declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after the resumption of result collation. This decision came after the conclusion of outstanding results from Obingwa LGA. Otti secured 175,467 votes, surpassing his closest rival, Okey Ahiwe of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who received 88,529 votes.

The election process faced disruption when thugs invaded the INEC office in Obingwa LGA, leading to the suspension of result collation. Despite the interruption, Otti maintained his lead with over 80,000 votes at the time of the suspension.

Otti's victory marked the first win for the LP in the March 18 governorship elections nationwide. He had urged INEC to release the results promptly to restore peace in the state, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the electoral act's guidelines during the process. 

In an interview with news men, he said; 

“I have called on INEC to release the results forthwith so Abia will be at peace. It is our firm belief that INEC will do the right thing and ensure that only results that are based on the BVAS as provided in section 47 of the electoral act are acceptable,” he said while addressing a press conference in Abuja.

"I believe that once that is done, we will be announced as the winners of that election.

They (INEC) actually asked for a review which is provided for in the electoral act. INEC has about seven days even after the declaration to review and make a change if there is a need to do".

The party had won in all the five south-east states — Abia, Enugu, Anambra, Imo, and Ebonyi — in the presidential election.

Achievements

Otti is known for his commitment to socio-economic development and good governance. He has advocated for policies aimed at improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure in his home state and beyond. His contributions have made a positive impact on the lives of many Nigerians.

Wife And Children

Alex Otti is happily married to his wife, Priscilla Otti and they have three children together.

Parents

Alex Otti was born into a Christian family in Isiala-ngwa LGA of Abia State to Late Pastor Mr. & Mrs. Lazarus Weze Otti.

Houses And Cars

In early August 2023, Abia State Governor Alex Otti reiterated his dedication to promoting Innoson vehicles during a visit from Chief Dr. Innocent Chukwuma at his residence in Isiala-ngwa, Abia State.

Governor Otti, in his welcoming speech, voiced his backing for the Anambra-based manufacturer, underscoring the importance of supporting local brands. He highlighted the enduring partnership between Abia State and Innoson Vehicles Motors (IVM), recalling instances such as producing the trucks used during his inauguration and supplying vehicles for other officials.

During the visit, Governor Otti reminded Innoson Chairman, Dr. Innocent Chukwuma, about his pending official vehicle, to which Dr. Chukwuma promptly assured delivery by the following week.

However, criticism arose when Governor Otti launched 'Operation Crush' and unveiled 20 Hilux patrol vans donated to security agencies in the state, sidelining locally-made Innoson motors. Despite the public outcry, Innoson Chairman, Dr. Innocent Chukwuma, publicly defended Governor Otti, citing their strong business relationship and asserting the governor's authority to make such decisions.

Net Worth

Governor Alex Otti net worth as of 2022 is estimated to be around $500,000 - $1 million.

Social Media Handle 

For those of you that want to reach out to governor Alex Otti, you can do so on Instagram using the handle @Alexottiofr