Governor Alex Otti of Abia State hosted Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate for the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), over the weekend in a visit that has sparked growing speculation about a potential political alliance between Kwankwaso’s party and a faction of the Labour Party (LP).
Kwankwaso’s visit to the Abia State governor comes amid ongoing internal divisions within the Labour Party. These divisions became more pronounced after Governor Otti, alongside other prominent LP figures, led an effort to challenge and oust the Julius Abure-led National Working Committee of the party just weeks ago. This leadership crisis within LP has created uncertainty at both the state and national levels, and many have attributed the party’s internal turmoil to its poor performance in the recent local government elections held across the 17 local government areas of Abia State.
During his visit, Kwankwaso explained that he was in Abia to express his condolences to Governor Otti following the death of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, the first civilian governor of Abia State, who was laid to rest over the weekend. In addition to offering his sympathies, Kwankwaso took the opportunity to congratulate Otti on his successful tenure as governor, highlighting the progress and development Abia State has experienced under his leadership.
“I am impressed by what I have seen during my short time here. I have had conversations with several individuals, and they have all confirmed that you are doing exceptionally well. Your efforts are visible, and the projects in the state are truly remarkable,” Kwankwaso remarked, acknowledging Otti’s leadership and the strides the state has made in various sectors.
Governor Otti, in turn, expressed his gratitude to Kwankwaso for his visit and support. He emphasized how much he values the senator’s guidance and patriotism, which have played an important role in shaping his own political journey.
The visit has stirred further conversations about the future of the Labour Party and the possibility of a strategic alliance as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
