Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has made an unexpected declaration that he will retire from active politics after completing his current term in office.
Speaking on Friday at the Government House in Umuahia, Otti firmly dismissed speculations that he harbours plans for higher political office.
However, he stressed that his focus remains solely on delivering his mandate as governor of Abia State.
The governor’s comments came amid reactions to a viral video criticising his recent visit to Nnamdi Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre.
In the video, an individual alleged that the visit was politically motivated and linked it to a possible ambition for higher office.
However, Otti used the occasion to clarify his position and shut down the growing speculation. According to him, democratic space allows people to express opinions, but those opinions are not always accurate.
“In the first place, that is the beauty of democracy. So people should hold their opinions, and we respect people’s opinions. And the fact that you hold a different opinion does not mean you are right,” the governor said.
He went further to state clearly that he has no interest in contesting for the presidency, vice-presidency, or a senatorial seat after his tenure. Therefore, he emphasised that any claims suggesting otherwise are unfounded.
“One of the things he talked about was my ambition after being governor, and I have said it before, and 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 when I finish with the governorship,” Otti added.
Moreover, the governor explained that his leadership is mission-driven rather than ambition-driven. He noted that his entry into politics was guided by a clear purpose, not by a desire to occupy positions indefinitely.
“I came on a mission, and when I deliver that mission, I will give way for younger people. So he was talking of the Igbo presidency. I do not even understand what that means. So I think if his thesis is based on that assumption, the assumption has collapsed, because he will not see me on the ballot,” the governor stated.
Meanwhile, Otti’s declaration stands out in a climate where many leaders often seek higher office.
Therefore, as Abia residents continue to assess his performance, Otti insists that his legacy will be defined by governance outcomes, not future ambitions.
