As Abia State gears up for the 2027 general elections, emerging aspirants with governorship ambitions have begun subtle maneuvers and behind-the-scenes activities to secure their political futures.
Although no one has officially declared an interest in contesting for the Abia top job, body language and insider reports suggest that several key figures are positioning themselves to challenge Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party.
Governor Alex Otti’s Record:
Governor Otti, who came to power in 2023 riding the wave of change after widespread disenchantment with the previous PDP-led administration, has consolidated his chances for a second term with a string of signature projects. Among his accomplishments are:
The near-completion reconstruction of the long-abandoned Port Harcourt Road in Aba.
The expansion of the Umuahia main entrance road into a six-lane thoroughfare.
The reconstruction of key roads such as Umuahia-Uzuakoli-Akara-Abiriba-Ohafia and Abam-Ndioji-Ndiokereke-Arochukwu.
Revitalization efforts in the health sector, notably turning around the Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH) in Aba and the reconstruction of 200 primary health centers across 184 political wards.
Resolving long-standing salary arrears for Abia workers and pensioners, with the recent approval of a jumbo pay for traditional rulers boosting his grassroots support.
These initiatives have won him many supporters, although some critics argue he should step down, citing concerns over project costs, transparency in awarding contracts, and allegations of political mismanagement within the Labour Party.
Challenges Facing Otti:
A significant hurdle for Governor Otti is the internal crisis in the Labour Party.
Despite his public claims that party disagreements have been resolved, dissent remains. Some party members who feel “used and dumped” after their hard work in 2023 may seek to exact revenge in 2027.
Additionally, critics contend that Otti has not invested enough in “stomach infrastructure” to meet the growing demands of the state, and some argue he lacks a robust personal political structure, choosing instead to bank on his achievements.
Another point of contention is the controversy surrounding the alleged forfeiture of gratuities owed to pensioners when Otti cleared their salary arrears.
Despite appeals for him to revisit the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signed with the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), the governor has refused to budge, a stance that may be exploited by his opponents.
Several prominent figures are emerging as potential challengers, each with distinct profiles and political backgrounds:
Chief Ikechi Emenike:
A seasoned APC chieftain, Chief Emenike has a history of contesting the governorship with the necessary financial muscle and both local and foreign connections.
Once a dominant figure in Abia politics during President Buhari’s tenure, his critics describe him as “strong-willed, unbendable and highly opinionated,” though allies regard him as humble.
However, his Umuahia origins, an area that has already produced a governor for eight years, might work against his chances.
Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu:
Currently the highest-ranking political office holder from the South East and a prominent member of the APC, Ben Kalu has made significant strides since his debut in the Green Chamber in 2019.
Known for his sagacity and effective networking, Kalu has played a key role in mobilizing defections of prominent Abia politicians to the APC.
He has also been instrumental in establishing the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) and organizing initiatives such as the Peace in the South-East (PISE-P) project.
Though he has not formally declared his intention to run, his recent comments and body language have fueled speculation about a potential bid for the governorship.
Okey Ahiwe:
The PDP’s former governorship candidate in 2023, Okey Ahiwe, hails from Isiala Ngwa in Abia Central, the same region as Governor Otti.
Despite finishing second in 2023, Ahiwe continues to nurse governorship ambitions, buoyed by the backing of his political godfather, ex-Governor Okezie Ikpeazu.
However, the PDP’s ongoing leadership crisis and a lingering perception that the party has long underdeveloped the state could hinder his prospects.
Chief Henry Ikoh:
A well-known figure in Abia politics and a former commissioner for Industry, Chief Henry Ikoh of the APC has aspired to governorship in previous attempts.
With a successful business venture, Harmony Foam, and a diversified portfolio in hospitality, Ikoh is viewed as financially capable of implementing a robust political agenda.
Yet, despite his reputation, doubts remain about his ability to rally the necessary statewide support to unseat Otti.
Uche Ogah:
Former Minister of State for Solid Minerals, Mines, and Steel Development, Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah has repeatedly shown interest in governing Abia State.
Although he supported Governor Otti in 2023, some political analysts believe Ogah is biding his time for 2031, particularly when power may rotate back to Abia North. For now, he appears content to stay on the sidelines.
Chief Emeka Atuma:
A former House of Representatives member and a chieftain of the APC, Chief Emeka Atuma has signaled his intention to challenge Governor Otti.
At a recent stakeholder meeting at his Ntalakwu Oboro Ikwuano palatial home, he took a clean sweep of Gov. Otti, accusing him of “performing below expectations,” and vowed, “I will retire him in 2027.”
An ex-lawmaker and affluent contractor, Atuma promises to deliver “good governance” if elected.
He claims that under the current LP-led administration, “the governed are blindfolded on the affairs of the state,” and pledges that the APC would “run on transparency, good governance and human capital development” if given the mandate.
He describes Otti’s tenure as “an accidental government,” setting the stage for a contentious contest.
