Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reiterated his stance that he will retire from active politics after completing his tenure as governor, dismissing speculation that he has ambitions for higher political office.

He made this announcement at the Government House in Umuahia while responding to a viral video in which an individual criticized him over his recent visit to Nnamdi Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre.

 

In the video, the critic suggested that Otti’s visit to Kanu indicated a possible ambition for the presidency, vice-presidency, or a senatorial seat after his time as governor. However, Otti categorically denied these claims.

 

“I have said it before, and I will say it again, once I complete my governorship, I will retire from politics. I do not have presidential, vice-presidential, or senatorial ambitions. My focus is on delivering on the promises I made to the people of Abia,” Otti stated.

 

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He emphasized the importance of respecting differing opinions, but made it clear that such opinions, especially regarding his future political plans, were unfounded. “Democracy allows for varying opinions, but that does not mean every opinion is correct. As for the idea of an ‘Igbo presidency,’ I don’t understand it. And if that is the basis of this assumption, it is misplaced. You won’t find me on the ballot again after my tenure,” Otti asserted.

 

The governor also stressed the significance of knowing when to step aside after fulfilling one’s responsibilities. “After you’ve done what you were elected to do, it’s time to exit gracefully and allow younger people to take up the mantle. We are not here to linger or to recycle ourselves in positions,” he said.

 

Regarding his visit to Nnamdi Kanu, Otti explained that his actions were based on a broader desire for peace and resolution, rather than political maneuvering. He clarified that his visit was part of an ongoing effort to engage with Kanu, who hails from Umuahia North, the state capital.

 

Source: Punch