By Joy Okoye and David Okorie
Political tension is mounting in Abia State as strong indications emerge that Governor Alex Otti may be reassessing his political future amid growing fears of becoming a one-term governor. At the heart of the unfolding drama is the rise of a powerful opposition coalition determined to reclaim the state in 2027—a development that has reportedly unsettled the current administration.
In recent days, Abia politics has witnessed an unprecedented realignment, with influential figures across the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP) and other platforms closing ranks. The coalition is said to be spearheaded by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and includes former Governor Theodore Ahamefule Orji, former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, Minister of State for Labour, Nkiru Onyejeocha, former Chiefs of Staff, as well as several former and serving government officials cutting across party lines. Their decision to bury past political differences and work together is widely viewed as a strategic move to wrest control of Abia from the ruling government.
Political analysts say the coalition represents the most formidable opposition Governor Otti has faced since assuming office. Unlike the fragmented resistance of the past, the emerging alliance blends experience, grassroots structures, federal connections and deep political capital. Observers argue that this convergence signals a potentially bruising re-election battle for the governor, with the real prospect of a one-term tenure now firmly in focus.
Against this backdrop, speculation has intensified over Governor Otti’s alleged renewed interest in joining the APC. Sources close to political power centres in Abuja and Umuahia suggest the governor is increasingly uneasy with political isolation, particularly as federal power remains firmly in APC hands. Within his camp, alignment with the ruling party at the centre is being interpreted by some as a survival strategy rather than an ideological shift.
Concerns about a one-term tenure are said to be weighing heavily on the governor. Abia’s political history, analysts note, has shown that incumbency alone does not guarantee re-election—especially when opposition forces are united. The growing APC-led coalition has already begun projecting confidence, presenting itself as a rescue mission aimed at “reclaiming Abia” and addressing what it describes as governance shortcomings.
Critics of the Otti administration have also raised concerns over finances. They argue that the governor has received unprecedented levels of funding since assuming office—reportedly exceeding what all previous Abia administrations combined received—largely due to improved federal allocations and support. Despite the inflow, opposition figures allege that performance has fallen short of expectations, a gap they say is fuelling public dissatisfaction and strengthening opposition resolve.
Within political circles, a narrative is gaining traction that Governor Otti’s current manoeuvres, including alleged defection talks, are driven more by anxiety than confidence. Whether he ultimately aligns with the APC or chooses to confront the coalition from his present platform, the political reality appears unmistakable: Abia is heading into a fiercely contested season.
As 2027 draws closer, the united front assembled by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and his allies is reshaping Abia’s political equation. For many observers, the collaboration is more than symbolic—it is a loud warning that Governor Alex Otti’s re-election is far from assured, and that the spectre of a one-term governorship has become a central issue in Abia politics.
