Otti rules out presidential bid, says he will retire after governorship

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has said he has no plans to contest Nigeria’s presidency or seek any other elective position after completing his tenure as governor.

Otti made the statement during an interview with Arise Television while responding to questions about his political future and his relationship with former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi.

The governor said he intends to retire from politics after completing his current assignment in Abia State and ruled out contesting for the Senate, presidency or even local government office.

Otti described his time as governor as a public-service responsibility he believes he was called to undertake.

He also dismissed suggestions of a political disagreement with Obi.

According to Otti, Obi would be allowed to campaign freely in Abia State if he chose to do so, just as other presidential candidates would be permitted to campaign in the state.

He said providing equal political access was part of the democratic process and maintained that he was not fighting Obi or any other political figure.

Asked directly whether he could consider a presidential bid in the future, Otti reiterated that he planned to retire once his tenure as governor ended.

His comments come amid political discussions surrounding the 2027 election and speculation about the future ambitions of prominent Nigerian governors and political leaders.