Abia ALGON Accuses Ex-Governors of Envy-Driven Plot Against Governor Otti

 

The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Abia State has strongly condemned what it describes as a coordinated effort by former governors of the state to undermine Governor Alex Otti, attributing their actions to deep-seated envy over his administration's visible achievements.

Local Government Chairmen, under the leadership of ALGON Chairman Chinedum Ekeke, made the accusation during a press conference in Umuahia on Friday. They berated the trio of former governors—Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Theodore Orji, and Okezie Ikpeazu—for allegedly ganging up against the incumbent, claiming their opposition stems from intimidation by Otti's "laudable achievements" in infrastructure, fiscal discipline, and overall governance renewal.

The statement comes amid escalating political tensions in Abia State, including reports of the ex-governors' recent meetings where they reportedly resolved to oppose Otti's re-election bid in 2027 and even threatened legal action over his continued operation from a private residence in Nvosi rather than the official Government House in Umuahia.

According to ALGON's communiqué, the former leaders, who each served full eight-year terms between 1999 and 2023, left the state in a state of underdevelopment and decay. The chairmen contrasted this with Otti's performance in just over two years, highlighting rapid progress in road rehabilitation, security improvements, payment of pension arrears, and urban renewal efforts that have reportedly made Abia the "envy" of neighboring states.

"The former governors are only envious of Gov. Otti because they felt intimidated by his laudable achievements," the ALGON statement read in part. "They are ganging up out of envy, selfishness, and jealousy, not for the good of Abia people."

The group reaffirmed its full support for Otti's second-term ambition, declaring that the future of Abia remains in the hands of its citizens, whose judgment should prevail over what they termed self-serving political maneuvers by past leaders.

This position aligns with similar defenses from other pro-Otti groups, including the Abia chapter of the Obidient Movement, which has also warned the ex-governors against attempts to truncate Otti's re-election and accused them of contributing to the state's previous "sorry state."

No immediate response has been received from the former governors or their representatives. However, political observers note that the public spat reflects broader divisions in Abia politics as the 2027 governorship race approaches, with Otti's Labour Party administration facing increasing scrutiny and opposition from influential figures who once dominated the state's leadership.

Supporters of the governor continue to rally around his reforms, while critics argue that governance is a continuum and that direct comparisons overlook past economic and political constraints.

As the rhetoric intensifies, stakeholders call for calm and focus on service delivery, urging that the state's progress should not be derailed by personal or political rivalries. Abians are watching closely to see how this unfolding drama will shape the political landscape ahead of future elections.