Abia State Governor Alex Otti has unequivocally stated he will not follow former presidential candidate Peter Obi out of the Labour Party (LP), instead vowing to lead an effort to “reclaim” the party.
Otti made the declaration Tuesday in Umuahia, directly addressing mounting speculation about his own political future.
His comments come amid widespread reports that Obi is finalizing plans to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“I joined the Labour Party before Peter Obi,” Otti stated, establishing his independent standing within the party. “He has communicated to me that he is leaving the Labour Party. So, I have given him my blessings.”
The Governor, however, drew a clear line. “I will remain in the Labour Party. I will continue the struggle to reclaim the Labour Party. That’s the party that brought me to power”, he said.
Otti framed his decision as a fight for the party’s core identity, suggesting departure was a final option only if internal efforts fail.
“I will fight, and if we do not succeed, that is when we will begin to consider other options,” he concluded.
His statement clarifies the shifting landscape within the opposition, effectively severing the public political link between the Abia governor and the national “Obidient” movement led by Obi.
Sources indicate Obi plans a formal declaration for the ADC in Enugu on December 31, as that party organizes for the 2027 election cycle.
The Labour Party’s national leadership, under Julius Abure, has responded cautiously to the defection rumors. Party spokesman Obiora Ifoh stated they await direct word from Obi, but noted defections are routine in politics and the party would continue regardless.
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