Abia Governor Alex Otti Unmoved by Opposition’s Political Noise, Welcomes Defector from PDP

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has declared that he is unfazed by the political noise from opposition parties in the state.

This statement came as he received a delegation on Tuesday led by Nnamdi Ibekwe, the Bende North State Constituency lawmaker who recently left the Peoples Democratic Party to join the ruling Labour Party.

Otti characterized many opposition participants as lacking serious intentions to win elections, suggesting their participation is often for recognition or political bargaining. “There are different reasons why people show up (for elections),” he said. “Sometimes, they just want recognition-that their names showed up for the primaries-knowing fully well that they will not win the election.”

He further explained that some opposition figures use elections to negotiate political benefits or to project themselves for future opportunities. “They look at themselves and say, ‘If I start the noise in 2025, maybe by 2040 they will know that I have been in the race and they will call me and recognise me,’ so they are projecting themselves.”

Governor Otti reaffirmed his commitment to governance, stating that his response to opposition criticism is delivering results. “For us, governance is about stewardship and leadership. And that is what is keeping us here,” he said.

Regarding Ibekwe’s defection, Otti congratulated him on joining the Labour Party, emphasizing that the move was voluntary and that the party welcomes all who are committed to good governance. He announced plans for an official reception to honor Ibekwe’s new membership and noted his rising status within the party.

Ibekwe expressed admiration for Otti’s achievements, calling this period the best for Abia people and pledged support for the governor’s 2027 re-election campaign. The delegation included prominent political figures from Bende North.