2027: PDP Ready to Hand Otti Governorship Ticket if He Defects — Wabara

The Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Adolphus Wabara, has indicated that Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, would be welcomed into the party and offered its governorship ticket for the 2027 election should he choose to defect. Speaking in Umuahia on Sunday, Wabara described Otti as a political asset whose performance in office has attracted admiration across party lines, fueling speculation about possible political realignments ahead of the next general elections.

Wabara made the remarks shortly after the launch of the Abia 25-Year Development Plan by the state government, an event that brought together political stakeholders and development experts. His comments have since drawn attention within Abia’s political space, highlighting the PDP’s efforts to rebuild influence in the South-East and position itself strongly for 2027.

PDP’s Open Offer and Otti’s Growing Political Appeal

Wabara stated that the PDP would not hesitate to present Otti as its governorship candidate in 2027 if he decides to join the party. According to him, the governor’s record in office has made him attractive not only to voters but also to major political parties seeking credible candidates with proven governance credentials.

He noted that interest in Otti across party lines reflects a broader recognition of his achievements since assuming office in May 2023. Wabara argued that performance, rather than party affiliation, should remain the primary yardstick in evaluating political leadership, especially at a time when voters are increasingly demanding accountability and results.

The former Senate President also emphasized that the PDP’s National Working Committee has been working to reposition and rebrand the party. He said these efforts have strengthened the PDP’s credibility as a platform for aspirants, particularly in Abia State, where political dynamics have shifted significantly in recent election cycles.

South-East Politics and the PDP’s Repositioning Strategy

Wabara reaffirmed that the South-East remains a traditional stronghold of the PDP, despite recent electoral setbacks. He suggested that Otti’s potential defection would enhance the party’s chances in the zone and help restore its relevance in national political calculations.

According to him, the PDP’s Board of Trustees is intensifying efforts to attract “progressive-minded individuals” who can help move the party forward. He argued that rebuilding the party’s influence in the South-East requires credible leadership and a renewed focus on governance outcomes that resonate with the electorate.

Wabara also referenced leadership challenges within the Labour Party, suggesting that Otti may require a stronger and more nationally entrenched platform ahead of 2027. He described the PDP as having the capacity and national spread to withstand pressures and political manoeuvres often associated with ruling-party dominance.

Governance Record and Abia’s Development Trajectory

Commending Governor Otti for unveiling the Abia 25-Year Development Plan, Wabara described the document as a strategic roadmap for long-term growth and institutional stability. He praised the administration’s achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, industry, and security, noting that recent reforms have renewed public confidence in governance.

He highlighted specific projects, including the procurement of electric buses for urban mass transit, which he said would help ease transportation challenges faced by residents. Wabara recalled his earlier commendation of the governor during the reconstruction of Port Harcourt Road in Aba, a long-neglected federal road, noting that critics of his stance had since been proven wrong by visible progress on the ground.

“As an elder statesman and stakeholder in Abia politics, I have a moral obligation to acknowledge performance, irrespective of party affiliation,” Wabara said, adding that many Abians now express renewed optimism about the state’s future. He maintained that aligning with the PDP could further enhance Otti’s prospects in 2027, given the party’s historical presence and organisational depth.