Uzodimma Pays Courtesy Visit to Otti Says Meeting Was Not Political

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Imo State Governor and South East Governors’ Forum Chairman, Hope Uzodimma, recently visited Abia State Governor Alex Otti in what he described as a purely courtesy call, dismissing speculation that the engagement had any political intent.

The visit followed a similar meeting between Otti and Henry Ikoh, an ally of Uzodimma and prominent APC chieftain, who had praised the Abia governor for his administration’s achievements and development initiatives.

Speaking to journalists after the engagement, Uzodimma emphasized that his visit was motivated by New Year goodwill and regional cooperation, rather than politics. “My visit today is purely a courtesy call. I came to wish the Governor a happy New Year, pray with him, and acknowledge the good work he is doing for the people of Abia State,” he said.

Uzodimma highlighted the importance of collaboration among South East governors, irrespective of party differences, noting that such unity is vital for advancing regional development. “We are determined to develop the South East, and collaboration is the only way to achieve that goal,” he explained. He added that as chairman of the regional forum, it is his responsibility to regularly consult and exchange ideas with fellow governors.

He also reaffirmed the commitment of all five South East governors to keeping the region fully integrated within the Nigerian federation, underscoring that their work transcends party lines.

During the visit, Uzodimma praised Otti for his governance and the visible progress in Abia State, while Otti reciprocated the goodwill, clarifying that the visit was not political. “This wasn’t a political visit. However, as politicians, discussions may naturally touch on politics. What matters most is understanding that government operates as one system — federal, state, and local,” Otti stated.

Otti further advised against conflating party differences with opposition, stressing that debate and disagreement do not equate to disloyalty within governance structures. He reaffirmed Abia State’s firm place in the federal framework, describing the engagement as a simple New Year courtesy.

The governor of Abia, the only sitting governor elected under the Labour Party, has reportedly been courted by multiple parties, including efforts from former Senate President Adolphus Wabara to persuade him to join the PDP. Similar overtures have come from the APC and APGA, though Otti has maintained his loyalty to the Labour Party, noting he would consider alternatives only if the party’s leadership crisis became irreparable.

Uzodimma was accompanied by former Imo State Governor Ikedi Ohakim, while Abia State’s Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, and other senior officials also attended the meeting.