By Our Correspondent
The Labour Party (LP) has formally affirmed the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, as its national leader, following the defection of its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The decision was announced by party leaders amid ongoing efforts to stabilize the party and redefine its leadership structure after Obi’s departure, which marked a significant shift in the LP’s political landscape. According to the party, Governor Otti’s emergence as national leader reflects his status as the party’s most prominent elected official and a symbol of its continued relevance in Nigerian politics.
Party officials stated that the move is aimed at ensuring unity, continuity, and effective coordination ahead of future political engagements.
They emphasized that Otti’s leadership would help consolidate the party’s structures nationwide and strengthen its ideological commitment to good governance and accountability.
Governor Otti, who won the Abia governorship under the Labour Party platform in 2023, is widely regarded as one of the party’s major success stories. His administration’s performance in Abia State has been cited by LP leaders as a key reason for entrusting him with a broader national leadership role.
Peter Obi’s defection to the ADC has continued to generate reactions within the political space, given his influence and the massive support base he attracted during the 2023 general elections. However, the Labour Party has maintained that it remains focused on institutional growth rather than individual personalities.
The party reassured its members and supporters that it is repositioning for future elections and remains committed to providing a credible alternative in Nigeria’s democratic process.
