The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed disappointment with Governor Alex Otti of Abia State over his recent comments on President Bola Tinubu's 2027 re-election bid. According to Theo Abu Agada, NDC Director of New Media and Strategic Communications, Otti's decision not to oppose Tinubu's ambition is inconsistent with the support he received from Peter Obi and the Labour Party during the 2023 elections. Otti was one of the biggest beneficiaries of Obi's political movement in 2023.
Agada argued that Otti should be campaigning for Peter Obi's 2027 presidential ambition under the NDC, given the significant support he received from Obi's campaign. He described Otti's decision as a betrayal, stating that the governor owes Obi his political success. Agada also accused Otti of indirectly supporting Tinubu's second-term bid by backing some of the administration's policies, which he claimed were anti-people.
Governor Otti had stated in an interview with ARISE News that he would not oppose Tinubu's decision to seek another term in office, citing the President's constitutional right to contest the 2027 election. However, he clarified that his refusal to oppose the bid should not be interpreted as an endorsement. Otti explained that as a member of the government and the National Economic Council, he preferred to raise disagreements within government meetings rather than publicly oppose the administration.
Otti drew a distinction between recognizing Tinubu's constitutional right to contest and supporting his candidacy. He stated that he had a presidential candidate in the 2027 election, referring to Peter Obi, who contested the 2023 elections under the Labour Party platform alongside Otti. Otti acknowledged that some of Tinubu's policies aligned with his own position, citing the removal of fuel subsidy as an example.
The criticism from the NDC comes after Otti and Obi parted ways, with Obi moving to the NDC and becoming the party's presidential candidate for the 2027 election. Otti remains in the Labour Party and is seeking re-election as Abia governor. The 2023 elections saw Otti emerge as Abia governor, while Obi finished third in the presidential election won by Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Agada's comments reflect the NDC's stance on Otti's recent statements, emphasizing that the governor's actions are at odds with the support he received from Obi and the Labour Party. The NDC believes that Otti should prioritize his loyalty to Obi, given the significant role Obi's campaign played in Otti's election as Abia governor.
The development highlights the complexities of Nigeria's political landscape, with various parties and leaders navigating alliances and rivalries. As the 2027 election approaches, the NDC's criticism of Otti's stance on Tinubu's re-election bid underscores the tensions within the country's political arena.
Key points
- The Nigeria Democratic Congress criticizes Governor Alex Otti for supporting President Bola Tinubu's 2027 re-election bid.
- Otti's decision not to oppose Tinubu's ambition is seen as inconsistent with the support he received from Peter Obi and the Labour Party.
- The NDC believes Otti should prioritize his loyalty to Obi, given the significant role Obi's campaign played in Otti's election as Abia governor.
