Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has stirred reactions online after declining a lifetime award presented to him by a Students’ Union leadership.
In a video currently circulating on social media, the Governor was seen addressing the students shortly after they attempted to honour him with the award during an event.
While appreciating the gesture, Otti explained that he had already made a personal commitment not to accept awards, Chieftaincy titles or honours while still serving as Governor of the State.
“I want to thank you for this award. I would have accepted it, but as I said during my inauguration in 2023, I will not accept any award, Chieftaincy title, or honour until I finish serving the people of Abia State,” he said.
The Governor added that he was not rejecting the recognition entirely but preferred that it be kept until after his tenure in office.
“I’m not rejecting the award, you can keep it for now. After I’m done serving the people of Abia State, if you still believe I’m worthy of it, then you can present it to me,” he added.
Watch the video below;
“I want to thank you for this award. I would have accepted it, but as I said during my inauguration in 2023, I will not accept any award, chieftaincy title, or honour until I finish serving the people of Abia State. I’m not rejecting the award, you can keep it for now. After I’m… pic.twitter.com/k7UNprn1Gq
— CHUKS
(@ChuksEricE) May 12, 2026
The statement drew applause from those present, while the video has since attracted praise from many social media users who described the Governor’s response as humble and focused on service.
Since assuming office in 2023, Otti has repeatedly maintained that his priority remains governance and delivering on promises made to the people of Abia State.