APC Suspends Abia Congresses Amid Defection Rumours Surrounding Alex Otti
“APC suspends Abia congresses amid rumours Governor Alex Otti may defect from Labour Party. INEC notified as political realignment speculations grow.”
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended its planned state, local government, and ward congresses in Abia State, fueling fresh speculation that Governor Alex Otti may be considering a defection to the ruling party.
In a letter dated February 18, 2026, and addressed to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the APC National Working Committee formally notified the electoral body of its decision to halt the congresses earlier scheduled in the state.
The correspondence was jointly signed by the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, and the National Secretary, Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru. According to the party, the suspension followed “ongoing consultations” and the need to conclude preparatory and administrative processes to ensure a transparent and credible exercise.
The party assured INEC that a revised timetable would be communicated in line with the Electoral Act 2022 and other regulations guiding political parties.
Although the APC did not directly link the decision to any political realignment, political observers say the timing has intensified rumours that Otti — currently the only governor elected on the platform of the Labour Party — may be in talks with the ruling party.
Sources within the party in Abia suggest the suspension could be part of strategic consultations aimed at accommodating new entrants and restructuring the party ahead of future elections.
Neither the APC leadership nor Governor Otti has officially confirmed any defection discussions.
In a related development, the APC also reportedly suspended congresses in Adamawa State amid speculation that Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party may also be considering a switch.
If Otti eventually defects, it would significantly reshape Abia’s political landscape and could alter power dynamics ahead of the next electoral cycle.
