Governor Alex Otti of Abia State recently welcomed former NNPP presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso to his home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South LGA. While Kwankwaso cited his primary purpose as condoling with Otti over the passing of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, Abia State’s first governor, speculation abounded about a possible political alliance between the two leaders ahead of the 2027 elections. The presence of notable figures, including Speaker of the Abia House of Assembly Emmanuel Emeruwa, aides, and members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, added fuel to the rumors.
Analysts believe this meeting could signify efforts by the Peter Obi-led Labour Party (LP) faction to unite opposition parties, creating a strategic front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). “2027 is near,” remarked one analyst, suggesting the two leaders likely discussed the need for a united front in the next presidential race. Another analyst pointed out that a collaborative strategy could be essential to contest APC's dominance at the federal level.
Kwankwaso's visit also coincided with a ceremony hosted by Governor Otti to honor 15 Abia natives who recently graduated from the Nigeria Police Academy in Kano. Addressing the graduates, both Otti and Kwankwaso encouraged them to work diligently and uphold professionalism in their roles, underscoring the importance of integrity in public service. Otti urged, “Do things right and do the right things. Cutting corners does not take you too far.” Kwankwaso echoed similar sentiments, advising them to “fear God and stay professional.”
The alliance discussions follow last month’s local government election results, where candidates loyal to Otti won nearly all chairmanship positions under the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP). Otti’s support of ZLP candidates reflects ongoing disputes within the LP regarding leadership, with factions led by Julius Abure and Nenadi Usman, the latter supported by Obi and Otti.
Kwankwaso praised Otti's governance and achievements in Abia, saying, “We have seen your projects everywhere.” The governor, in turn, expressed gratitude for Kwankwaso’s previous support, recalling how he offered him a platform in May 2022 if he had wanted to run for governor. The visit has raised expectations among political observers, who suggest that if opposition leaders, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Kwankwaso, align strategically, they might present a formidable challenge in 2027.
