Abia Gov Otti Speaks Out on Dumping LP and Joining Atiku-Lead Coalition: “That’s What Matters”

According to a NewsVista report, Abia State Governor Alex Otti has denied rumors claiming he has dumped the Labour Party to join a political coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

Speaking in Umuahia on Tuesday, July 2, Otti made it clear: “I am still a member of the Labour Party. I’ve not been invited to any coalition meeting, and I’ve not attended any. We are focused on delivering what Abians elected us to do.”

His statement comes amid growing speculation that several opposition leaders may join forces under a new coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections — with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a possible platform. But Otti says he’s not part of those plans.

Addressing internal Labour Party disputes, the governor acknowledged past tensions but said they were resolved through legal processes. “You don’t run away from problems. You stay and fix them,” he added, showing confidence that any lingering issues in the party will be resolved soon.

Otti also restated his commitment to governance, not political games. “We are happy where we are. The focus is good governance, not political speculation,” he said.

Meanwhile, the governor recently announced plans to recruit 4,000 more teachers to improve education in the state, bringing the total number of new hires under his administration to nearly 9,400.

As talk of 2027 intensifies, Otti’s firm stance is a clear signal to supporters — for now, he’s staying Labour.

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