Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has again made it clear that he will retire from active politics after completing his tenure, dismissing speculations that he is nursing ambitions for higher political office.
Speaking on Friday at the Government House, Umuahia, the governor rejected claims that his recent visit to detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, was politically motivated or linked to any future presidential, vice-presidential or senatorial ambition.
Otti was reacting to a viral video by a critic who accused him of using recent actions to position himself for national office.
According to the governor, democracy allows for differing opinions, but opinions do not automatically translate to facts.
“I have said it before and I want to say it again: when I am done with the governorship, I will retire. I do not have presidential, vice-presidential or senatorial ambition,” he said.
Otti explained that his political journey was mission-driven, stressing that he intends to step aside after delivering on his mandate.
“I came on a mission, and when I deliver that mission, I will give way for younger people,” he stated.
He also dismissed narratives around an “Igbo presidency,” saying such arguments have nothing to do with him and collapse once his position is properly understood.
On his visit to Nnamdi Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, Otti said the move was purely humanitarian and part of sustained peace efforts, noting that Kanu is from Abia State.
The governor added that dialogue remains a better approach to resolving national challenges, while emphasising that his intervention has nothing to do with politics or personal ambition.
