Cleric Warns APC Against Alliance with Abia Governor Alex Otti Ahead of 2027 Elections
Rev. Chika Ubani, a cleric from Abia State, has issued a strong warning to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Presidency, advising them to steer clear of any political alliance with Governor Alex Otti in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. Speaking during an interaction with journalists at the AllYouthAlive Retreat, Ubani emphasized that the ruling party should concentrate on securing electoral victory in Abia State independently, without relying on what he termed "backdoor agreements" with the incumbent governor.
Call for Independent Strategy
Ubani argued that any form of political understanding with Governor Otti would be counterproductive for the APC. He maintained that the party possesses the necessary organisational structure and political capacity to win the state on its own merits. "The APC must be intentional about winning Abia. There is no need for any arrangement with the governor. The party has credible candidates who can contest effectively," he stated. His comments come amid early political positioning for the 2027 elections, with parties and stakeholders beginning to signal potential alignments and strategies.
Caution Against Replicating Anambra Model
The cleric also cautioned against replicating political arrangements reportedly observed between the APC and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in neighbouring Anambra State, led by Governor Charles Soludo. Ubani stressed that Abia's political landscape differs significantly from Anambra's, both in terms of party dynamics and personalities. "Abia is not Anambra. The political realities are different, and any attempt to apply the same template may not produce the desired outcome," he explained.
Allegations of Weakening Coalition
Further elaborating on his stance, Ubani alleged that the political coalition that supported Otti's emergence in the 2023 elections has weakened over time. He claimed that some former supporters have since moved to other platforms, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which could reshape the political contest in Abia ahead of the next election cycle. However, these claims remain subject to independent verification and have not been officially confirmed.
Urging Resistance to Alliance Pressure
Ubani urged the APC leadership to resist what he described as pressure to form alliances, insisting that Abia should not be considered for any political concessions. "If there is any consideration for opposition control in certain states, Abia should not be among them. It is a state the APC can contest and win," he asserted. He also disclosed that he had supported Otti during the 2023 elections but had since reassessed his position, citing concerns over political trust and alignment.
Contrast with Traditional Rulers' Endorsement
Ubani's warning to the APC comes on the same day that the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers formally endorsed Governor Otti for re-election. The council, led by Eze Linus Nto Mbah, argued that Otti's first-term performance merits continuity, giving him the opportunity to serve a full eight-year tenure like his predecessors. This endorsement was announced following a closed-door meeting with the governor at his Nwosi Office in Isiala Ngwa South Council, reflecting the council's confidence in his leadership and achievements across various sectors.
As political dynamics continue to evolve, Ubani's advice highlights the complexities and strategic considerations facing the APC as it prepares for the 2027 elections in Abia State.
