FORMER Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose has advised Abia State Governor Alex Otti to remain loyal to the Labour Party (LP) despite the ongoing wave of defections affecting the party.
Fayose made this appeal yesterday during a visit to Otti’s hometown in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. Commending Otti’s performance, he described the governor as a pillar of the party and urged him not to succumb to political pressure.
“My governor, don’t decamp. You are now an institution. Even if others leave, stay in Labour. You represent the party’s strength,” Fayose said.
Governor Otti, who joined LP in May 2022 after unsuccessful bids under APGA, has been at the center of speculation about a possible move to the APC. However, in April, he firmly denied the reports, calling them “baseless and false.”
As discussions around the 2027 elections begin, Otti has stated that he will seek divine guidance before deciding whether to run again.
During his tour of Abia projects in Umuahia and Aba, Fayose expressed admiration for the developments under Otti’s administration.
He highlighted improvements in road infrastructure, healthcare, education, and the introduction of smart schools.
“I’m impressed with the quality of work—roads that were previously impassable are now in great shape. Port Harcourt Road in Aba, for instance, has been transformed into a dual carriageway after 37 years,” Fayose noted.
He also lauded the concept of smart schools being implemented in the state and promised to introduce the idea to his home state of Ekiti.
“The governor has returned leadership to the people. Starting is easy; finishing strong is what matters most,” he added.
Otti remains LP’s only serving governor following his victory in the 2023 governorship election.
However, the party has been grappling with internal crises since the election, leading to several defections.
In December 2024, four LP lawmakers and later Alfred Iliya Ajang of Plateau State left the party for the APC, citing internal disagreements.
These exits reduced LP’s House of Representatives members from 34 to 26 and its Senate seats from eight to six, raising concerns about the party’s stability ahead of 2027.
Despite the challenges, LP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has remained open to political alliances, emphasizing that the focus must remain on improving citizens’ lives—not just political gains.
Meanwhile, other major parties, including the PDP, have also seen key figures defect to the APC, reflecting broader political realignments.