The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has called on Abia State Governor Alex Otti to actively support the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, ahead of the 2027 general elections. Theo Abu Agada, Director of New Media and Strategic Communications for the NDC, made the appeal in a public statement on Saturday, emphasizing that Otti owes Obi political loyalty after benefiting significantly from his 2023 campaign wave. Agada argued that Otti’s current alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s policies undermines his credibility as a supporter of progressive change.
Agada pointed out that both Peter Obi and Alex Otti were key figures in the Labour Party (LP) during the 2023 election cycle. While Obi contested for the presidency and lost, Otti was elected governor of Abia State, a position he secured amid widespread momentum generated by Obi’s campaign. According to Agada, this success was directly tied to the popularity and grassroots mobilization driven by Obi’s candidacy, making Otti a major beneficiary of that political movement.
In a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Agada wrote: “If we are being honest, Alex Otti should be at the forefront campaigning for and supporting the 2027 ambition of His Excellency, Mr Peter Obi under the NDC.” He added, “He was the biggest beneficiary of Obi’s wave in 2023. If for nothing else, he owes him.” The NDC official further criticized Otti for backing what he described as Tinubu’s “anti-people reforms,” which include controversial economic policies such as fuel subsidy removal and currency devaluation.
Agada accused Otti of indirectly endorsing Tinubu’s re-election bid by aligning with his administration’s agenda. “By supporting Tinubu’s anti-people reforms, he is endorsing Tinubu for a second term,” Agada stated. He labeled the Abia governor an “enemy of the Nigerian people,” suggesting his actions contradict the interests of ordinary citizens struggling with rising inflation and unemployment.
The call for Otti to realign with Obi’s political vision comes amid growing speculation about the 2027 presidential race. As various parties begin to consolidate their campaigns, alliances and endorsements will play a crucial role in shaping voter perception. The NDC’s public challenge to Otti highlights internal tensions within the broader opposition space, particularly among leaders who once campaigned together but have since taken different political paths.
This development may influence how other state governors and political figures position themselves in the coming years. With Peter Obi expected to remain a central figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, his potential 2027 run could see renewed efforts to rally support from former allies and regional leaders. The outcome of this public appeal may also signal deeper shifts in party dynamics and voter coalitions across Southeast Nigeria.
Leave a Comment