Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has firmly distanced himself and the South-East region from claims by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma that the zone’s governors have collectively endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term in 2027.
Governor Otti, while reacting to recent statements attributed to the Chairman of the South-East Governors’ Forum, emphasized that no single governor has the authority to speak on behalf of the entire region or commit other states to a particular political position.
“As a governor and as an individual, you can’t speak for everybody,” Governor Otti declared. He clarified that Governor Uzodinma is entitled to his personal opinion and support for President Tinubu, but such views should not be misconstrued as representing the collective stance of South-East governors or the people of the region.
Governor Otti stressed the importance of individual autonomy among the governors, noting that decisions regarding the 2027 presidential election will be made at the appropriate time by the Nigerian people. He urged focus on current governance responsibilities rather than premature political declarations.
“The Governor of Imo State said something about re-electing the President, but I’m not sure it is right to say that. As a Governor and as an individual, he can’t speak for every Governor,” Otti added.
This clarification comes amid ongoing political conversations in the South-East, highlighting the diversity of views within the region’s leadership, which includes governors from different political parties.
Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering good governance, infrastructural development, and improved livelihoods for the people of Abia State, while calling for unity and constructive engagement across the South-East.