Otti Receives PDP Ex-Deputy Governorship Candidate Into Labour Party

By Abah Margaret

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his commitment to completing what he described as his God-given mission in the state, declaring that he will not be distracted.

The governor made the statement on Monday while receiving the former Deputy Governorship Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election, Dr. Jasper Uche, at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

Uche, founder of the Ihe Abia Organisation, recently defected from the PDP to the Labour Party.

Speaking during the visit, Otti expressed appreciation for Uche’s support and acknowledgment of his administration’s efforts, noting that he was encouraged by his commitment both in politics and his professional engagements.

“I want to thank you for everything. I’m also encouraged by the way you spoke about the people you came with,” Otti said.

“One assurance I will give you is that we will not give up, and we will not be distracted. We have a mission, and until that mission is accomplished, we will not stop.

“We believe that this is the time God has ordained for this change. If God has designed something, no one can stop it,” he added.

The governor reiterated his openness to welcoming new members into the Labour Party and directed the Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, to coordinate the formal reception and integration of Uche and his supporters in Umunneochi Local Government Area.

“We are very open to receiving people. As Igbo people, we are hospitable. Even when you are not part of us, we do not see you as an enemy,” Otti stated.

In his remarks, Uche said he visited the governor alongside his supporters to reaffirm their commitment to his administration and to support his re-election bid in 2027.

He noted that his group, Ihe Abia Organisation, has been active for the past five years and is ready to mobilise support across Umunneochi and beyond.

“We are here to complement the efforts of others working with you to ensure your re-election. We will not just double the votes in Umunneochi; we will triple them in 2027,” Uche said.

He emphasized that his supporters are dedicated and grassroots-based, adding that they are ready to work collectively to strengthen the governor’s political base.

Uche also commended Otti’s achievements, describing them as visible, verifiable, and people-oriented, while expressing pride in the governor’s performance.

The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu; the Secretary to the State Government; the Chief of Staff; Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije; Senior Adviser on Health, Dr. Ngozi Azodo; SSA on Due Process, Dr. Oluebube, alongside other top government officials and members of the Ihe Abia Organisation.