Abia State Governor Alex Otti has expressed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election bid in 2027, citing his position as governor and member of the National Economic Council. Despite being a member of the opposition Labour Party, Otti stated that his role in government comes with obligations that prevent him from openly opposing Tinubu's candidacy. In an interview on Arise Television, Otti acknowledged that his support for Tinubu can be seen as a "comfortable arrangement" between him and the ruling All Progressives Congress.
Otti explained that being part of the government means he has a responsibility to work within the system rather than opposing it. He warned that open opposition could lead to "implosion" within the system he serves. Instead of opposing Tinubu, Otti said he would raise his concerns in meetings, allowing him to make his point without publicly opposing the President. This approach, he believes, is a more constructive way to address any issues he may have.
As a member of the National Economic Council, Otti noted that he is involved in decision-making processes that align with the Federal Government's policies. This, he said, leaves him little room to distance himself from Tinubu's re-election project. Otti emphasized that his role on the council effectively ties him to decisions taken by the Federal Government, making it difficult for him to oppose Tinubu's candidacy.
When asked directly about his support for Tinubu, Otti pointed to his earlier remarks about having a presidential candidate for the Labour Party. However, he clarified that this candidate is not Tinubu. Otti maintained that Tinubu has every right to contest the 2027 election and noted that several of the President's policies align with his own long-held positions. He cited the removal of the fuel subsidy as an example of a policy that resonates with his thinking.
Otti highlighted that the fuel subsidy was unsustainable and that its removal is a policy he has long advocated for. He emphasized that while people may not agree with him, his support for Tinubu's policies is genuine. Otti's comments suggest that there are areas of commonality between his views and Tinubu's policies, which may have contributed to his decision to support the President's re-election bid.
Despite his support for Tinubu, Otti reiterated that he still maintains his position as a member of the Labour Party. He did not provide further clarification on how his support for Tinubu aligns with his party affiliation. Otti's comments have sparked interest in the political landscape, particularly in the context of the 2027 election.
The development has raised questions about the implications of Otti's support for Tinubu's re-election bid, particularly within the Labour Party. Otti's stance has also sparked debate about the dynamics of opposition politics in Nigeria and the complexities of party affiliations. As the 2027 election approaches, Otti's position is likely to be closely watched by political observers and stakeholders.
Key points
- Abia State Governor Alex Otti supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's 2027 re-election bid due to his obligations as governor and National Economic Council member.
