Abia Gov Otti rules out presidential bid, says he’ll retire after tenure, closing the door on any political ambitions beyond his current role as governor of Abia State.
Speaking in an interview with Arise TV on Friday, Governor Alex Otti addressed months of speculation about his political future, stating plainly that he has no plans to pursue higher office once his time as governor comes to an end.
Otti was direct about the scope of his decision. He said he would not be contesting for the Senate, a local government chairmanship, or any other elective position after his tenure.
“So I’m not going to run for any other thing, not local government chairman, not Senate, not president, no.”
The governor framed his time in office as the fulfilment of a personal mission rather than a stepping stone to bigger political ambitions.
“I think I came to deliver a calling, and that is what I’m doing now. Once I finish it, I’ll retire. And I’m not getting any younger anymore.”
The interview touched on the political trajectory of former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, whose presidential ambitions have remained a subject of national discussion. Asked whether he might follow a similar path, Otti reaffirmed his decision to step back from politics entirely once his tenure ends.
He was also asked about his relationship with Obi, given ongoing public interest in their political standing, and Otti dismissed any suggestion of rivalry, insisting there was no friction between the two leaders, that Obi is welcome to campaign in Abia State if he chooses to, that other political figures, including Atiku Abubakar, would also be free to campaign in the state, and that he sees open political access as fundamental to democratic practice.
“Anybody that wants to campaign in my state will be allowed. Peter Obi and I are not fighting.”
Otti went further to explain his broader philosophy on political engagement within Abia State, noting that allowing rival politicians to campaign freely reflects the core principles of democracy rather than any personal endorsement.
“So that is what democracy is about.”
This position stands out at a time when political tensions between rival camps have shaped conversations ahead of future elections, positioning Otti as an advocate for open political space regardless of party lines.
With this latest interview, Abia Gov Otti rules out presidential bid speculation once and for all, making clear that his political journey will end with his current tenure as governor. His remarks not only settle questions about his own ambitions but also reinforce his stance on fair political access for other leaders, including Peter Obi, within Abia State.
