The Catholic Diocese in Abia State has assured Governor Alex Otti of its maximum support for his re-election bid in 2027.
Speaking during the maiden edition of the Liturgical choral music competition comprising Umuahia diocese, Aba Diocese, and Okigwe Diocese, organised by the Abia State Catholic Choir Association, the Deputy General Manager, Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) Umuahia Zone, Catechist Ambrose Jonah said the essence of the event was to show gratitude to God for the good governance in the state through Dr Alex Otti’s administration, pointing out that God brought Dr Alex Otti for liberation and development growth.
Jonah, who served as the guest of honour, described Governor Otti’s emergence as divinely orchestrated for the liberation and development of Abia State.
He noted that the event was not designed to determine the best choir, but rather to appreciate God and reaffirm the Catholic community’s support for the Governor.
He also used the occasion to advocate for increased voter registration, urging youths to shun violence and instead engage in spiritually uplifting activities such as the choral competition, which he said promotes youth empowerment. He added that the turnout at the event was massive and encouraging.
Jonah further congratulated Regina Caeli Deanery for emerging as the winner of the maiden edition of the liturgical choral music competition.
In his remarks, the Catholic Archbishop of Umuahia Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Kalu Ukpong, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the competition. He noted that the exercise created opportunities for learning and improvement, particularly in stage management and vocal performance.
Also speaking, the diocesan music consultant, Hon. Nathanael Nwoko, and the Head of Music and Liturgical Commission, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Ikechukwu Agoha, said the competition featured nine finalist choirs drawn from Umuahia, Aba, and Okigwe dioceses.
They commended the participants for their outstanding performances from the preliminary stages to the finals.
The clerics added that the choral competition helped to rekindle the true essence of Easter celebrations among the faithful.
