By Okechukwu Keshi Ukegbu
The in Abia State has dismissed as false reports alleging that Governor Alex Otti influenced the indefinite suspension of congresses of the (APC) in the state.
The rebuttal follows a letter dated February 18, 2026, addressed to the (INEC), in which the APC announced the suspension of its state, ward, and local government congresses in Abia. The letter was signed by the party’s National Chairman, Professor Mentawe Goshwe Yilwatida, and National Secretary, Senator Nurudeen Ajibola Bashiru.
According to the APC, the decision was based on ongoing consultations and the need to conclude preparatory and administrative processes to ensure an orderly, transparent, and credible conduct of the congresses.
However, amid speculation that the postponement was linked to an alleged arrangement for Governor Otti to defect to the APC, the Abia Labour Party issued a statement firmly denying the claims.
In a release signed by its Publicity Secretary, Mazi Chidiebere Okoro, the party described the reports as “false, misleading, and baseless,” stating unequivocally that Governor Otti remains a committed and bona fide member of the Labour Party, under whose platform he was elected.
“His Excellency remains a committed and bona fide member of the Labour Party, under whose platform he was elected and under which he continues to faithfully serve the good people of Abia State,” the statement read.
The party highlighted what it described as measurable progress under Governor Otti’s leadership across critical sectors, including infrastructure renewal, healthcare reform, educational advancement, and economic empowerment initiatives. It noted that several projects aimed at improving citizens’ welfare and strengthening the state’s economic base are ongoing.
Labour Party further described the circulation of such rumours as regrettable, especially at a time when the administration is focused on consolidating developmental gains.
“The spread of unverified information serves only to distract from the serious work of governance and risks misleading the public,” the statement added.
The party reaffirmed that Governor Otti remains committed to delivering tangible results for Abians and ensuring that governance proceeds without disruption or speculation.
