A senior official of Nigeria’s All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has publicly called for Abia State Governor Alex Otti to rejoin the party, citing its stability amid what he described as turmoil in rival political factions. Augustine Ehiemere, APGA’s National Vice Chairman for the South East region, made the appeal during a stakeholders’ meeting in Abia State last week, framing the governor’s potential return as a strategic move to consolidate his governance efforts.
Ehiemere emphasized APGA’s purported resilience in Nigeria’s often-volatile political climate, asserting it offers Otti a “true political home” to advance his agenda. He criticized rival parties—including the Labour Party, which Otti currently represents—as “unstable” or “in disarray,” specifically naming the African Democratic Congress (ADC), All Progressives Congress (APC), and People’s Democratic Party (PDP). “APGA remains the healthiest and most stable platform for ideological consistency,” Ehiemere said, referencing Otti’s prior bids for governor under the party’s banner in 2015 and 2019.
While urging Otti to return, Ehiemere acknowledged the governor’s recent initiatives, such as enhancing security through collaborations with neighboring Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and establishing a state security trust fund. He also praised Otti’s administration for ensuring timely salary and pension payments, though he highlighted unresolved gratuities for retirees as an urgent priority.
The call comes amid heightened political realignments in Nigeria’s southeastern region, where APGA has historically maintained influence. Otti, elected in 2023 under the Labour Party, has yet to publicly respond to the appeal. Analysts note his potential return to APGA could reshape local alliances, particularly given the party’s regional stronghold.
Ehiemere concluded by rallying APGA members in Abia to remain steadfast, underscoring the party’s focus on “sustainable governance.” Observers view the move as part of broader efforts by APGA to reclaim prominence ahead of future elections, leveraging Otti’s current popularity to bolster its base.
