A viral video of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, addressing speculation about his political future has stirred fresh debate across Nigeria’s political space. The clip, widely circulated on X, Instagram and Facebook, captures the governor reaffirming his loyalty to the Labour Party while acknowledging the shifting nature of Nigerian politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In the video, Otti states clearly, “I am in the Labour Party, and there is no election tomorrow. But if there were, I would still run on the Labour Party platform.” He adds, “But nobody knows tomorrow,” a remark that has drawn varied interpretations from political observers and party supporters.
The governor’s comments come amid persistent rumours linking him to a possible move to the All Progressives Congress. Speculation intensified following the APC’s suspension of its Abia State congresses, a development some analysts suggested could be connected to efforts to accommodate a high-profile political figure. Otti was previously a member of the APC before joining the Labour Party in 2022, where he secured the governorship ticket and went on to win the 2023 election.
Read Also:
- Alex Otti to pay 22-year salary arrears owed former Abia Councillors
- CIBN hails Abia Governor Alex Otti for 10% GDP growth, poverty reduction, job creation
- Doris Ogala takes sides with Orji Kalu, says Alex Otti only repainted old Abia Roads
The governor’s statement appears less critical of the previous statement he had made. He categorically stated that nobody knows tomorrow leaving a small window for possible defection. However by stressing his present commitment to the Labour Party and tying it to a hypothetical election scenario, Otti projected continuity and loyalty to the platform that brought him to office.
Recent reports from several national media outlets have carried similar remarks from the governor during late January media engagements. In those appearances, he maintained that his priority remains governance in Abia State rather than political manoeuvring. He also spoke about repositioning the Labour Party amid internal leadership disputes and the exit of notable figures such as Peter Obi.
The Labour Party has publicly described Otti as one of its leading lights, commending his electoral success and governance record. Party figures, including former Minister Nenadi Usman, have reiterated support for his continued membership.
Reactions online remain divided. Supporters see the video as a reassurance that the governor is focused on delivering on his mandate in Abia. Critics, however, argue that the phrase “nobody knows tomorrow” reflects the fluid alliances that often shape Nigerian politics, particularly as 2027 approaches.
For now, there is no official indication of a defection. Governor Alex Otti remains in the Labour Party and continues to position his administration around governance and policy delivery in Abia State. The viral video, rather than signalling a political shift, underscores the realities of a landscape where loyalties are tested and recalibrated as election cycles draw near.
