Abia 2027: Gov Otti Considers APC Lifeline as Sen Kalu, Ex-Governors Close Ranks

By Joy Okoye and David Okorie

Political tension is rising in Abia State as indications grow stronger that Governor Alex Otti may be reconsidering his political future amid fears of becoming a one-term governor. At the centre of this unfolding drama is the emergence of a powerful opposition coalition determined to reclaim Abia in 2027, a development that has reportedly unsettled the current administration.

In recent days , Abia politics has witnessed an unprecedented realignment with the consolidation of influential figures within the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Labour Party (LP) and others. The coalition is reportedly led by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and includes former Governor Theodore Ahamefule Orji, former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, Honourable Minister of State for Labour, Nkiru Onyejeocha, former Chiefs of Staff, and several former and serving government officials across party lines. Their decision to bury past political differences and work together is widely seen as a strategic move to reclaim Abia State from the ruling government.

Political analysts believe this coalition represents the most formidable opposition Governor Otti has faced since assuming office. Unlike fragmented opposition efforts of the past, the current alliance combines experience, grassroots structures, federal connections, and deep political capital. Observers argue that this development alone is a strong indication that Governor Otti may indeed be heading towards a difficult re-election battle, with the real possibility of ending up a one-term governor.

It is against this backdrop that speculations have intensified over Governor Otti’s alleged renewed plan to join the APC. Sources close to political power centres in Abuja and Umuahia suggest that the governor is increasingly uncomfortable with political isolation, especially as federal power remains firmly under APC control. Aligning with the ruling party at the centre is being viewed by some within his camp as a survival strategy rather than an ideological shift.

The fear of a one-term tenure is said to be weighing heavily on the governor. Abia’s political history has shown that incumbency alone does not guarantee re-election, particularly when opposition forces are united. The growing APC coalition has already begun to project confidence, presenting itself as a rescue mission aimed at “reclaiming Abia” and correcting what it describes as governance deficiencies.

Critics of the Otti administration also point to financial issues. They argue that Governor Otti has received unprecedented levels of funding since assuming office reportedly more than all previous Abia governments combined largely due to improved federal allocations and support. Despite this huge inflow of funds, opposition figures allege that the administration’s performance does not reflect the scale of resources available to it. According to them, expectations have not matched outcomes, fueling public dissatisfaction and strengthening the resolve of the opposition.

Within political circles, the narrative is gaining ground that Governor Otti’s current maneuvers, including alleged talks of defection, are driven more by fear than confidence. Whether he eventually joins the APC or chooses to confront the coalition from his present platform, the political reality is clear: Abia is heading into a fiercely contested season.

As 2027 approaches, the united front formed by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and his allies is reshaping Abia’s political equation. For many observers, their collaboration is not just symbolic it is a loud warning signal that Governor Alex Otti’s re-election is far from guaranteed, and that the specter of a one-term governorship is now a central issue in Abia politics.