Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has publicly declared his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s controversial yet bold decision to end Nigeria’s long-standing fuel subsidy regime, describing the move as “courageous” and necessary for national economic revival.
Otti, who once ran on the platform of APGA, later joined the APC, and eventually clinched the governorship under the Labour Party, made this statement while addressing journalists in Umuahia on Tuesday.
“Ending fuel subsidies was never going to be easy. Everyone promised it, even Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar campaigned on it, but let’s be honest—only Tinubu had the liver to actually do it,” he said.
Otti emphasised that while fuel subsidy removal is painful in the short term, it remains a critical step to salvaging Nigeria’s failing economy and redirecting public resources to more productive sectors.
When asked about possible political alliances ahead of the 2027 elections, Otti was quick to caution against premature speculation. “It’s too early to talk about 2027. That’s like playing God. Right now, my focus is on delivering for Abians and supporting national decisions that benefit Nigerians.”
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu also fueled speculation during a media briefing where he stated:
“We are not into any coalition. All I know is that Gov. Alex Otti is supporting Tinubu, and Tinubu is supporting Otti. That’s all I can say for now.”
Governor Otti’s endorsement of Tinubu’s subsidy removal marks a notable political twist, especially given his alignment with the Labour Party a party that has often criticised the current administration’s economic direction.
Still, Otti’s pragmatism appears to be winning him new political allies and admiration for putting Nigeria first, even if it means going against popular sentiment.