Otti Rules Out 2027 Presidential Bid, Plans Political Retirement

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has said he will leave politics after completing his tenure as governor, ruling out any plan to contest for the presidency, Senate or another elective position in the future.

Otti made this known on Friday during an interview with Arise TV while responding to questions about former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi’s political ambitions and whether he could also seek the presidency after his tenure in Abia.

The governor said he had no plans to pursue another political office once his time as governor ends. He said his focus remained on completing the work he set out to do in Abia before withdrawing from active politics.

Otti also said he had no disagreement with Obi and would allow the former Anambra governor to campaign in Abia if he decided to do so ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He said the same opportunity would be available to other presidential candidates who wished to campaign in the state, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

According to Otti, allowing political candidates to campaign freely is part of the democratic process, and he would not prevent anyone from seeking support from voters in Abia.

The governor said he had previously made his intention to retire from politics known and remained committed to that decision. He explained that he entered public office with a specific purpose and wanted to complete the work before stepping away.

Otti also ruled out seeking the position of local government chairman or returning to the National Assembly as a senator after his tenure.

His comments come as political activities increase ahead of the 2027 general elections, with several political figures declaring their ambitions and parties preparing for the next electoral cycle.

The Abia governor said his priority for now was to continue governing the state and fulfil the responsibilities attached to his current office rather than pursue another political position.