Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has encouraged Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, to remain in the Labour Party (LP) despite recent defections shaking the party’s foundation.
Fayose made the appeal during a visit to Otti’s residence in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
Commending the governor’s record in office, he urged him not to yield to political pressure to switch parties.
“You’ve become a political institution in your own right,” Fayose told Otti.
READ ALSO: Ex-gov Fayose’s brother suspends Atiku, Wike, declares self PDP National Chairman
“Nigeria is a diverse nation with a multi-party structure. Even if everyone else leaves the Labour Party, your staying power sends a strong message. Remain where you are.”
The comment comes amid speculation over Otti’s political future. In April, the Abia governor dismissed rumours that he was preparing to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing them as “completely false and without basis.”
He has also said that any decision regarding a second-term bid in 2027 would come only after spiritual reflection.
Fayose’s visit followed a state-wide inspection of major projects executed by the Otti administration in Umuahia and Aba.
He admired Otti’s developmental strides, especially in road infrastructure, health services, and education.
“I was deeply impressed,” Fayose said. “From newly constructed and rehabilitated maternity centres to strategic roads that were once impassable, your government has transformed communities and improved quality of life.”
In particular, he highlighted the transformation of Port Harcourt Road in Aba, once considered a logistical nightmare, as a dual carriageway, describing the project as vital to reviving the city’s commercial status.
“I’ve toured over eight roads in Aba,” Fayose noted.
“Port Harcourt Road, which had been neglected for nearly four decades, is now a symbol of renewal and access.”
Fayose also lauded Otti’s rollout of smart school initiatives and pledged to replicate the concept in his home state.
“The smart school model is perhaps the most inspiring thing I’ve seen here,” he said. “It’s an innovative step, and I intend to share it with the current Ekiti State governor.”
According to him, Otti has successfully shifted power back to the people, ensuring his administration is driven by grassroots priorities.
“What matters is not how you start but finish,” Fayose said. “From what I’ve observed, Governor Otti is on the right path and must remain resolute to complete the journey successfully.”
Otti joined the LP in May 2022 following an unsuccessful bid for office under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
He won the 2023 governorship election in Abia State, defeating the PDP candidate, Okey Ahiwe.
His victory made him the first, and currently the only, LP governor in Nigeria, during a period when the party saw massive support, especially from younger voters.
Since the 2023 elections, however, LP has been rocked by internal divisions and a series of defections.
In December 2024 alone, four federal lawmakers crossed over to the APC, citing unresolved factional issues. Alfred Iliya Ajang from Plateau State followed shortly after.
As a result, LP’s representation in the House of Representatives has dropped from 34 to 26, and in the Senate from eight to six.
These developments have raised concerns about the party’s unity and strength ahead of the 2027 elections.
READ ALSO: Anti-Tinubu coalition is a waste of time – Fayose
Meanwhile, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has remained open to alliances—on the condition that they prioritise citizens’ welfare rather than political gains.
The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has also seen key figures jump ship to the ruling APC, further intensifying political realignment ahead of the next electoral cycle.
