2027: Otti Clarifies Position on Tinubu, Backs Labour Party Candidate

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has clarified his position on President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 presidential bid, saying he has his own candidate whom he is expected to support.

Otti made the clarification during an interview with Arise TV, following questions over his relationship with Tinubu and whether he would support the President’s re-election bid.

The governor said Tinubu has the constitutional right to contest the 2027 presidential election and that nobody should prevent him from exercising that right.

However, Otti explained that his position as a member of the Labour Party requires him to support the party’s presidential candidate.

“I have a presidential candidate and it is expected that I support my candidate,” Otti said.

He further stated that while Tinubu had the right to seek re-election, his own political support was directed towards the Labour Party’s candidate for the 2027 election.

“He has the right to run and nobody can stop him. But I’m in the Labour Party and for now, he has my support,” the governor said, referring to his party’s candidate.

Otti’s comments followed reports and speculation about his relationship with the Tinubu administration, particularly against the backdrop of his interactions with the Federal Government on issues concerning Abia State.

The governor has maintained working relations with the Federal Government while also remaining a member of the Labour Party, which is fielding its own candidate for the 2027 presidential election.

His latest comments therefore draw a distinction between his working relationship with the President and his position on the forthcoming presidential contest.

The clarification comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, with candidates and political leaders increasingly outlining their positions and support ahead of the polls.

Otti said the existence of political differences should not prevent elected officials from maintaining institutional relationships necessary for governance, while political parties and their members remain free to support their respective candidates.