Otti’s Visit to Tinubu Focused on Nnamdi Kanu, Not Defection – Gov’s Aide
The Special Adviser to Abia State Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, has said the governor’s visit to President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday was entirely focused on the release of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Ekeoma made the statement on Thursday in response to claims by former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Abia, Charles Ogbonnaya, who alleged that Otti’s visit was aimed at negotiating a defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general election.
According to Ekeoma, the meeting was a continuation of Otti’s ongoing efforts to secure Kanu’s release.
“The governor met with the President following his visit to the IPOB leader at the Sokoto Correctional Centre on Sunday, November 30, 2025. This was in line with earlier discussions he has had with the federal government over the past two years,” he said.
“The issue of Kanu was the only reason for Governor Otti’s visit to Aso Rock, and the meeting was positive and fruitful. The President was gracious and receptive.”
Ekeoma said it was necessary to respond to Ogbonnaya’s allegations because Kanu’s release is a sensitive issue for the state government.
He suggested that the former commissioner’s criticism stems from Otti’s departure from his party during the 2023 general election.
Challenging Ogbonnaya, Ekeoma said, “He has failed to name anyone Governor Otti allegedly betrayed, or specify when and how. His claim that Otti sought to join the APC is petty, laughable, and irresponsible. Any political party would welcome Governor Otti warmly.
“Ogbonnaya accused Otti of lacking capacity, yet he defeated him at the polling unit, ward, and LGA levels, even where PDP candidates lost. He accused Otti of inconsistency, yet the governor quickly moved on from Alhaji Atiku Abubakar after the presidential election, prioritising practical considerations.
“Ogbonnaya also accused the governor of playing politics with Nnamdi Kanu, yet he objects to Otti’s efforts to secure Kanu’s freedom. There is nothing more contradictory and ridiculous than these claims.”
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
