Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has categorically denied widespread rumors suggesting he intends to defect from the Labour Party (LP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or join the newly formed opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The clarification comes amid growing political speculation following the launch of a new opposition coalition, which recently adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its political platform to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC in the next presidential race.
At the unveiling of the coalition, former Senate President David Mark was appointed interim national chairman, former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola was named interim secretary, and ex-Minister of Sports Bolaji Abdullahi was introduced as the spokesperson.
Speaking during an interactive session with members of the Abia State Global Economic Advisory Council in Umuahia, Governor Otti reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the Labour Party and to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Abia.
“I remain a committed member of the Labour Party. I am not decamping to the APC or any other political party. Our focus remains on governance and fulfilling our mandate to the people of Abia State,” he stated.
Addressing reports linking him to the opposition coalition, Otti responded:
“People have asked if I’m part of the coalition. My simple answer is: have you seen my name on any list? Have you seen me at any coalition meeting? I have not attended any and I have not been invited. We are fully occupied with the work Abians elected us to do.”
The governor emphasized that while challenges are part of governance, they should be addressed with solutions rather than political distractions:
“Problems are part of leadership. If there are no problems, you’re not alive. You face issues and solve them—you don’t run away and pretend everything is fine.”
Governor Otti also dispelled claims that his administration has been borrowing funds to run the state. He made it clear that since taking office in May 2023, his government has not secured any new loans.
“Let it be on record: we have not borrowed a single kobo since I assumed office. Our focus is on prudent financial management and sustainable development.”
