The Abia State Government has strongly refuted recent reports suggesting that Governor Alex Otti has defected from the Labour Party (LP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to the government’s official statement, the viral claims circulating on social media and some online news platforms are entirely false and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public about the governor’s political affiliation.
The controversy emerged after certain individuals from Abia State shared a picture showing Governor Otti during a courtesy visit to Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State. This visit, which reportedly took place just a few days before Governor Mbah’s defection to the APC, sparked false speculations suggesting that Otti was planning to follow the same path.
However, Abia Government officials have clarified that the meeting had no political undertone and was purely part of routine governance and interstate cooperation. The administration emphasized that Governor Otti remains deeply committed to the values and vision of the Labour Party, which he represents, and has no plans of switching political allegiance.
Government sources further stated that spreading such rumours at a time when the state is focused on governance, reforms, and infrastructural development is “a distraction engineered by political opponents who feel threatened by Otti’s growing popularity and performance.”
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, speaking on behalf of the governor, urged the public to disregard the false reports, noting that the administration’s primary concern is the delivery of good governance, accountability, and transparency to the people of Abia State.
Observers also noted that the Labour Party has become one of the most influential opposition parties in Nigeria, gaining widespread support after the 2023 general elections — particularly due to the strong influence of Peter Obi, the party’s presidential candidate.
Political analysts believe that these rumours are part of a wider narrative aimed at destabilizing the LP’s rising influence in the South-East. Governor Otti’s government, however, continues to enjoy massive grassroots support and is focused on sustaining the momentum that brought him to power.
The Abia State Government reiterated its stand that Otti’s visit to Governor Mbah was strictly administrative, emphasizing that political speculation should not overshadow the governor’s developmental strides and leadership focus.
In conclusion, the government advised the public to always verify information from credible sources before sharing. They also warned purveyors of fake news that spreading false political narratives can cause unnecessary tension and mislead citizens.
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