The Labour Party has dismissed rumors that Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, is planning to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party reaffirmed its confidence in Otti’s commitment to the Labour Party and described the rumors as baseless.
Speaking during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday in Abuja, the Labour Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, debunked the claims, assuring that Governor Otti remains loyal to the party.
“It is just a rumor, and we hope it remains so,” Ifoh stated. “We are in constant contact with our governor, Dr. Alex Otti, and he has assured us that he is not going anywhere ahead of 2027. We believe he will stay with us, despite some of the issues we are working hard to resolve.”
Addressing Political Defections
Ifoh acknowledged that political defections are not uncommon in Nigeria’s democratic system, citing past cases of governors switching parties. However, he emphasized that Otti has no intention of joining the APC or leaving the Labour Party.
“The courts have often interpreted Section 84 of the 1999 Constitution, and many defections have been challenged in court,” Ifoh explained. “So, if five governors are planning to defect, it won’t be anything new, as it has happened before. But Governor Otti is not part of that narrative.”
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Rumors Linked to Governance Challenges
Ifoh attributed the rumors to challenges faced by opposition governors in managing their states, suggesting that such speculation often arises in the face of political or administrative pressures. Despite these challenges, he maintained that the Labour Party is making significant progress and remains strong.
“We are doing well in the Labour Party, and our governor is with us,” he said confidently. “We hope that by 2027, we will have more governors in our ranks.”
Growing the Labour Party
The party remains optimistic about its future, with plans to expand its influence and secure more governorship seats in the 2027 elections. Ifoh’s statement is seen as a reassurance to party members and supporters amid growing concerns about defections to the ruling APC.
Governor Alex Otti, who was elected under the Labour Party platform, has been a key figure in the party’s push to establish itself as a formidable force in Nigerian politics. His continued loyalty to the party will likely strengthen its position as it prepares for the next general elections.
The Labour Party’s leadership remains focused on resolving internal challenges and building a stronger foundation to compete in the political arena. As Ifoh concluded, “We are united in our mission, and Governor Otti remains an integral part of our vision for the future.”