In an unexpected twist, prominent leaders from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) in Ukwa West Local Government Area (LGA) of Abia State have thrown their weight behind Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party. The declaration came during the flag-off ceremony for the construction of the Obehie-Umudobia-Owaza road at St. Ann Secondary School in Obehie, signaling a potential shift in the region’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Among the defecting leaders are Ralph Egbu, a former Secretary to the Abia State Government, Victoria Akanwa, a former Commissioner, and Okechi Etche Adinigwe Nwoke, alongside other notable figures. They expressed confidence that the electoral setback Otti and the Labour Party faced in Ukwa West during the 2023 elections would not recur in 2027. Egbu, speaking on behalf of the group, highlighted the tangible benefits the oil-rich LGA has seen under Otti’s administration. “My people are benefiting from the present administration in the state, and we have no choice but to support the governor,” he said, emphasizing a pragmatic shift beyond party lines.
The PDP and APGA leaders made it clear that their opposition affiliations would not blind them to the developmental strides in Ukwa West, particularly the road project, which is poised to boost economic activity in the oil-producing region. Their public endorsement marks a rare instance of cross-party support, reflecting Otti’s growing influence and the appeal of his governance agenda.
In response, Governor Otti warmly welcomed the leaders, describing them as “accomplished men” whose contributions would strengthen his administration. “You spoke very well. We do not take it for granted, and in due course, we will receive you even in a better fashion,” Otti assured, hinting at their formal integration into the Labour Party down the line. The governor’s remarks suggest a strategic openness to expanding his political base, especially in a region critical to Abia’s economic future.
This development follows recent turbulence within the Abia PDP, which expelled Adolphus Wabara, Chairman of its Board of Trustees, for allegedly endorsing Otti for a second term. The defections in Ukwa West further underscore a brewing realignment, as opposition figures increasingly align with Otti’s vision. With the Obehie-Umudobia-Owaza road project symbolizing his commitment to infrastructure, Otti appears to be winning hearts—and votes—in a once-hostile territory. As 2027 looms, this cross-party support could reshape Abia’s political dynamics, challenging the dominance of traditional powerhouses like PDP and APGA in the state.
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