In a definitive statement that has stirred public discourse, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has firmly reiterated his long-standing intention to exit active politics upon the completion of his tenure. The governor made this declaration to dispel speculations linking his recent actions to higher political ambitions.
Otti's Firm Declaration on Political Future
Governor Alex Otti spoke at the Government House in Umuahia, the state capital, on Friday, December 19, 2025. He was directly addressing a viral narrative that suggested his visit to the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, at the Sokoto Correctional Centre was a strategic move to boost his profile for a presidential run.
Dismissing these claims, Otti clarified that his visit to Kanu was solely motivated by the fact that Kanu is an indigene of Abia State. More significantly, he used the opportunity to restate his political exit plan. "I want to say it again, that by the time I am done with governorship, I will retire. So I do not have presidential ambition, nor vice-presidential ambition. I also do not have senatorial ambition," the governor stated emphatically.
He acknowledged that democracy allows for divergent opinions but insisted that such opinions about his ambitions were incorrect.
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians
The governor's vow has generated a wave of reactions from Nigerians across social media and public commentary, reflecting widespread skepticism and occasional praise for the declaration.
Some citizens expressed doubt, citing a common pattern among Nigerian politicians. A user named Kie commented, "Won't believe Otti's one-term retirement until he quietly hands over in 2027, no Senate, no boards. Nigerian politicians never quit power. Prove me wrong."
Others, however, praised Otti's stance as a mark of integrity. Mazị Uche Okeudọ described him as a man who came to serve, contrasting him with former governors who transition to the Senate or ministerial roles. Chiedozie Onyeke commended the governor, saying, "You have made your mark, Mr Governor. You have done the job you were voted for, unlike most Nigerian politicians."
Another perspective urged good leaders not to quit the political arena. Ehinomen argued, "This should not be the norm. Bad men don't quit, so good men shouldn't. If the good leave, the evil ones will occupy and influence policy."
Context: Recent Government Action
This political statement comes amidst other administrative actions by the Otti-led government. Legit.ng had earlier reported that the Abia State Government dismissed six senior civil servants over allegations of fraud related to salary payments.
The Chairman of the State Civil Service Commission, Eno Eze, announced the dismissal following the recommendations of an investigative committee which found members of a salary committee complicit in the fraudulent activity.
Governor Alex Otti's clear disavowal of future political office continues to spark debate about political succession, legacy, and the rare prospect of a voluntary exit from Nigeria's vibrant but often contentious political landscape.
