Chief Chidiebere J. Okoh, a prominent Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, has expressed strong disapproval over Governor Alex Otti’s alleged behind-the-scenes efforts to join the APC through President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Chief of Staff. Okoh described such actions as “unacceptable” and emphasized that if Governor Otti wishes to align with President Tinubu, he must do so openly and unequivocally, rather than through secretive machinations.

“Governor Otti’s covert moves to join APC via backdoor channels through the Chief of Staff to the President or any other secret means is unacceptable. He must come forward openly, express his support for President Tinubu, or simply forget about it. We believe in transparency and integrity in politics, and there is no room for scheming,” Okoh stated.

The APC Chieftain also came to the defense of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North in the National Assembly. Okoh strongly condemned what he discribed as “the ongoing campaign of character assassination against the senator”, which stems from a past statement. He called the attacks “insensitive” and “politically immature,” stressing that Senator Kalu remains a leader deeply concerned about the welfare of his people.

“Senator Orji Uzor Kalu is a visionary leader who always has the best interests of his people at heart. His unwavering commitment to supporting any bill that enhances the lives of Nigerians cannot be questioned. The current campaign against him, based on an old and outdated statement, is baseless and politically immature. It is an affront to the values of leadership, and we must all rise above such divisive tactics,” Okoh added.

Okoh’s comments come amidst growing political tensions in the state, with Governor Otti’s disposition towards 2027 and Senator Kalu’s role in national legislation at the center of the discourse.