Otti Supports Tinubu, Says He Won’t Oppose His 2027 Re-election Bid

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has declared that he will not oppose President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid in 2027, citing his own re-election ambitions as a reason for his position.

The Labour Party governor made the statement on Friday during the March edition of his monthly media chat titled “Governor Otti Speaks” at Government House, Umuahia.

“I am not in a position to oppose the candidacy of the President. I am not running for President,” Otti said. “Why would I oppose his presidency? I am also seeking a second term. So would it be appropriate for me to rationalise my answer and say that somebody else should not have his?”

The governor’s remarks followed a recent statement by Ginger Onwusibe, member representing Isialangwa North and South in the National Assembly, who had indicated that Otti would not stand against Tinubu’s re-election.

Otti dismissed attempts to frame his position along party lines, noting that governance requires cooperation across all levels of government. “So it has nothing to do with APC/PDP, or whatever you call it. It is a natural thing,” he stated.

The governor also criticised what he termed “self-styled opposition figures” for creating unnecessary political tension. “Again, sometimes people, when they want to claim opposition, try to heat up the system by creating in their imagination problems that do not exist,” he said.

On speculation about his possible defection from the Labour Party, Otti firmly dismissed the rumours, reaffirming his commitment to the party.

“The Labour Party had a problem, but that problem has been resolved by the Supreme Court. And INEC has also respected the decision of the Supreme Court,” the governor explained.

“So the party is back on its feet and will be strong very soon. As we speak, registration is ongoing. And those who haven’t registered should please register. You still have a window to register.”

Otti disclosed that the party would be holding congresses leading to a national convention soon, adding: “In the light of this superior information, the question about defecting does not arise.”