The Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, has dismissed claims that his recent visit to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), in Sokoto Correctional Centre was politically motivated, saying the trip was aimed at dialogue and peace, not advancing any political ambition.
Otti spoke on Friday when he received members of the Abia Diaspora Commission and the medical team of the Abia Global Medical Mission 2025 at the Government House, Umuahia.
The governor was reacting to a video circulating on social media in which a man criticised his visit to the IPOB leader. Otti defended the trip, insisting it was anchored on the need for constructive dialogue and peaceful engagement.
He also stressed that differing opinions, like those expressed in the video, are part of a democratic society.
Addressing speculation about his post‑governorship plans, Otti made it clear that he has no interest in contesting any office after completing his tenure.
Otti said, “One of the issues he raised in the video was my ambition after serving as governor.
“I have said this before, sometime in October, when we received representatives of the President, and I will say it again today. By the time I complete my tenure as governor, I will retire from public office.
“I have no presidential ambition, no vice‑presidential ambition, and no senatorial ambition.
“I came into this office on a mission, and when I deliver that mission, I will step aside and give room to younger people.”
Otti dismissed the suggestion that his actions were linked to an “Igbo presidency,” calling such arguments unfounded.
“If his argument is based on that assumption, then it has already collapsed, because you will not see my name on any ballot, but my children can contest, and your children can contest,” he said.
On the issue of Kanu, Otti said his engagement was part of longer‑standing efforts aimed at resolving complex issues involving the IPOB leader.
He said, “The second issue concerns Nnamdi Kanu, and I do not want to put too much into the public space so as not to jeopardise ongoing discussions.
“The truth is that exactly 24 months ago, I initiated discussions at the highest level regarding Nnamdi Kanu, so visiting him was the right thing to do because he is from my state and indeed, from Umuahia North Local Government Area.”
Governor Condemns Past Military Operations, Urges Legal Process
Otti reiterated his condemnation of Operation Python Dance, noting he had criticised the military operation in previous writings.
He said that while Kanu’s case is before the courts, there remains room for administrative intervention and dialogue, which does not equate to supporting disintegration.
Otti said, “When an issue has been approached legally, there is also an administrative window, and that is where I am coming from.
“I am not competent to challenge the judiciary. I am not a lawyer.
“If the court has sentenced him, that is the decision of a court of first instance. There is still room for appeal and even a possible journey to the Supreme Court.”
Otti stated that he has always opposed violent agitation and believes conflicts are best resolved through negotiation.
“I have never seen a war that did not end in negotiation. So, why start a war when you will still end up talking?” he asked.
He described himself as “an apostle of dialogue, not war,” emphasising that efforts should focus on peaceful resolution.
On the broader security situation, Otti warned that ongoing insecurity across the country has been exploited by criminal elements to target innocent people.
He said, “We will continue to do everything possible to ensure peace in this state.
“There are parts of this country where you cannot come out freely at this time of day, and that is not acceptable.
“I also know that some people take advantage of the current situation to unleash violence on our people.
“As I have told those I am negotiating with, if we have peace here and anyone brings violence, we will meet them firmly. But we must act responsibly as a government.”
Otti reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring safety and stability in Abia, stressing that peace is essential for the growth of businesses and wellbeing of residents.
He urged stakeholders to support dialogue‑driven solutions, adding that development and progress in the state depend on a secure environment.