Is Gov Otti Tinubu’s agent? Questions swirl over Abia governor's praise for Nigerian president

The political maneuvering of Abia State Governor Alex Otti is under scrutiny, particularly his public expressions of admiration for President Bola Tinubu, despite his strong ties to opposition figure Peter Obi. The article posits that if all of Obi's allies adopted Otti's pragmatic, locally focused approach, the opposition would become fragmented and less effective in challenging the ruling party in the upcoming 2027 elections.

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Is Otti’s disclaimer merely an otiose subterfuge?

While Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State declared that all Igbo governors were united in supporting Tinubu's re-election, Otti issued a disclaimer, stating Uzodinma could not speak for him. However, at an event for Tinubu's wife, Otti reportedly offered a string of superlatives for the president, leading to questions about the sincerity of his disclaimer.

The author argues that Otti can no longer remain neutral, as his silence or praise for Tinubu's performance effectively amounts to an endorsement. If Otti genuinely believes Tinubu has performed outstandingly, he should declare his support fully rather than engaging in what the article describes as "hide-and-seek." The piece suggests that such ambiguity undermines the moral clarity and sense of struggle that defines the 'Obidient' movement.

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He cannot run with the hare and hunt with the hound.

Many supporters of Peter Obi reportedly feel betrayed by high-profile figures like Otti, who rode the 2023 wave but now appear to treat Tinubu with admiration while focusing on state-level achievements. The article concludes that Otti, who owes his rise partly to Obi and the 'Obidient' movement, must make a clear choice, provide objective reasons, and offer leadership rather than appearing to be a promoter of Tinubu's agenda.

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Many Obi supporters are not wrong to feel betrayed.