APC South-East Vice Chairman Slams Gov. Otti Over Remarks Against Hope Uzodinma

The National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), South East, Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu, has strongly criticized Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, over his recent remarks directed at Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Senator Hope Uzodimma, regarding the region’s consensus on supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, describing the comments as unnecessary, divisive, and detrimental to the collective political aspirations of the South East.

Speaking in a strongly worded statement, Dr. Arodiogbu described Otti’s remarks as “unfortunate, inconsistent, and counterproductive,” arguing that they contradict an earlier alignment reached in January 2026.

“Recall that earlier in January, after a strategic meeting, Governor Alex Otti aligned with the position championed by Governor Hope Uzodinma for South East support and collaboration with the Tinubu administration,” Arodiogbu stated. “It is bewildering that he would now publicly berate a brother governor who has consistently worked to advance the interest of Ndigbo at the national level.”

“Governor Otti’s comments are not only unfortunate but represent a dangerous departure from the spirit of unity and strategic positioning that the South East needs at this critical moment,” Arodiogbu thundered. “For an opposition governor enjoying the benefits of federal projects and increased allocations under the Renewed Hope Agenda to turn around and berate a brother governor who is championing the zone’s interest is the height of political rascality and shortsightedness.”

The APC chieftain further praised Governor Uzodinma’s leadership, describing him as a bridge-builder who has sacrificed immensely to reposition the South East within the national political architecture. According to Arodiogbu, Uzodinma’s efforts have helped shift narratives from marginalization to active participation and benefit from federal projects.

“Let me be very clear: Governor Hope Uzodinma is not speaking for himself alone. He is articulating the collective aspiration of a zone that has suffered marginalization for far too long. President Tinubu’s administration has delivered more to the South East in three years than some previous governments did in decades. The SEDC, the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure, and the deliberate inclusion of our people in national appointments are undeniable facts,”

“Over time, Governor Hope Uzodinma has emerged as a foremost leader of Ndigbo in today’s Nigeria. Through his sacrifices, strategic engagements, and relentless advocacy, he has worked tirelessly to align the South East with the center in a manner that delivers tangible dividends. His chairmanship of the South East Governors’ Forum has been marked by unity of purpose and results-oriented governance,” Arodiogbu Stated.

He added that history would judge today’s leaders not by the intensity of their political exchanges but by their ability to build bridges, foster unity, and secure lasting benefits for future generations.

The APC National Vice Chairman called on all political actors in the South East, irrespective of party affiliation, to place the overall interest of the region above partisan considerations, insisting that unity, strategic cooperation, and constructive engagement remain the surest path toward greater political relevance and sustainable development for the South East as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.