The Abia State government has denied reports that Governor Alex Otti is planning to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC). In a statement, the Special Adviser to the Governor (Media and Publicity) Ferdinand Ekeoma described the reports as “false, baseless and unfounded.”

Ferdinand Ekeoma explained that Governor Otti’s recent meeting with Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State was not about politics, but rather a courtesy call to attend the birthday celebration of Governor Uzodinma’s twin daughters. “It’s completely devoid of substance and thus should be disregarded,” Ekeoma said.

Ekeoma further stated, “It’s natural for Governor Otti’s impressive performance, popularity and towering credentials as the Governor of Abia State to attract admiration and permutations from interested parties.” However, Ferdinand Ekeoma emphasized that Governor Otti’s political decisions would always be taken in conjunction with the majority of Abians and his allies.

Ferdinand Ekeoma quoted Governor Otti as saying that “it would be unfair to the Abia electorate if politics of 2027, instead of governance is allowed to dominate discussions less than two years into the administration.” Ekeoma concluded by stating that “Governor Otti remains a member of the Labour Party and is presently not planning or discussing with anyone to defect to the APC or any other party for that matter as falsely alleged.”