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2027 elections: Old Bende group disowns Otti endorsement by Ikwechegh

Old Bende Group Firmly Rejects Ikwechegh's Endorsement of Governor Alex Otti for 2027 Re-Election Bid

In a surprising turn of events within Abia State's political landscape, the Old Bende Group, a prominent socio-political organization representing the interests of the historic Old Bende Division, has publicly distanced itself from an endorsement of Governor Alex Otti for the 2027 gubernatorial election. The rejection specifically targets a recent statement attributed to Alex Ikwechegh, a federal lawmaker representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency, who had voiced support for Otti's potential second term. This development underscores the deepening fissures in Abia State's political alliances, as various groups jockey for influence ahead of the next electoral cycle.

The Old Bende Group, known for its advocacy on issues affecting the Ukwa-Ngwa and Bende regions, issued a strongly worded communique following Ikwechegh's comments. In the statement, signed by the group's chairman and several key stakeholders, they described Ikwechegh's endorsement as "unauthorized, self-serving, and not reflective of the collective will of the Old Bende people." The group emphasized that any decision regarding political endorsements, particularly for high-stakes positions like the governorship, must emerge from broad consultations within the community and not from individual proclamations. This rebuke comes at a time when Governor Otti, who assumed office in 2023 under the Labour Party banner, is navigating his first term amid praises for infrastructure reforms and criticisms over economic policies.

To understand the context, it's essential to delve into the historical and political dynamics at play. The Old Bende Division, encompassing areas like Umuahia, Bende, and parts of Ikwuano, has long been a powerhouse in Abia State's politics. It traces its roots to the colonial era when it was an administrative unit, and today, it remains a symbol of cultural and political identity for many indigenes. The group itself was formed to preserve this heritage, promote development, and ensure equitable representation in state and national affairs. Over the years, it has influenced key political decisions, including gubernatorial candidacies and senatorial races, often aligning with parties that promise zonal equity and resource allocation.

Governor Alex Otti's rise to power marked a significant shift in Abia State's governance. A former banker and economist, Otti defected from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the Labour Party, riding on a wave of public discontent with the previous administration under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His victory in the 2023 elections was hailed as a triumph of grassroots mobilization, with promises to tackle corruption, improve infrastructure, and boost the state's economy. In his first year, Otti has initiated projects such as road reconstructions in Aba and Umuahia, pension reforms for retirees, and efforts to revitalize the agricultural sector. However, challenges persist, including youth unemployment, security concerns in rural areas, and debates over fiscal management.

Enter Alex Ikwechegh, the controversial figure at the center of this storm. As a member of the House of Representatives, Ikwechegh has built a reputation as a vocal advocate for Aba's commercial interests. Elected under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), he has occasionally crossed party lines to support initiatives aligned with his constituency's needs. Recently, during a public event in Aba, Ikwechegh reportedly endorsed Otti for 2027, praising the governor's "transformative leadership" and urging Abians to rally behind him for continuity. He argued that Otti's policies have brought tangible benefits to the state, such as improved power supply and market revitalization, which directly impact Aba's bustling economy. Ikwechegh's statement was seen by some as a strategic move to align with a popular incumbent, potentially positioning himself for future political gains, perhaps even a gubernatorial ambition of his own.

However, the Old Bende Group views this endorsement with suspicion. In their communique, they accused Ikwechegh of overstepping his bounds, claiming he lacks the mandate to speak on behalf of the broader Old Bende community. "We are not pawns in anyone's political game," the statement read. "Endorsements must be rooted in consensus, not individual ambition." The group highlighted historical grievances, noting that the Old Bende area has often felt marginalized in state politics, with power rotations favoring other zones like Ukwa-Ngwa. They referenced past administrations where promises of equity were made but not fulfilled, leading to underdevelopment in key sectors such as education and healthcare.

This rejection is not isolated; it reflects broader tensions in Abia State's political ecosystem. Since Otti's election, there have been murmurs of discontent from various quarters. Opposition parties, including the PDP and APC, have criticized his administration for what they term "selective development," alleging that projects are concentrated in urban centers while rural areas lag. Moreover, internal Labour Party dynamics are fraught, with some members accusing Otti of sidelining party loyalists in favor of technocrats. The 2027 election is still years away, but early positioning is evident. Potential challengers, including figures from the PDP like former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu's allies, are already mobilizing, while Otti's supporters push for his re-election based on performance metrics.

Analysts suggest that the Old Bende Group's stance could have ripple effects. As a influential body, their rejection might embolden other groups to withhold support, forcing Otti to engage in more inclusive dialogues. "This is a wake-up call for the governor," said political commentator Dr. Chidi Nwankwo in an interview. "Abia politics thrives on zonal balancing. Ignoring groups like Old Bende could alienate a significant voter base." Nwankwo pointed out that in the 2023 elections, Otti's victory was bolstered by widespread support across zones, but sustaining that requires addressing parochial interests.

Furthermore, the incident highlights the role of endorsements in Nigerian politics. In a country where godfatherism and alliances often determine outcomes, premature or unsolicited endorsements can backfire. Ikwechegh's move, while perhaps well-intentioned, has been interpreted as presumptuous, especially given his APGA affiliation contrasting with Otti's Labour Party. Some speculate that Ikwechegh might be eyeing a switch to Labour or seeking federal appointments, using the endorsement as leverage.

The Old Bende Group has called for a stakeholders' meeting to deliberate on the 2027 elections, insisting that any endorsement will be based on candidates' track records and commitments to the group's agenda. This includes demands for better infrastructure in Bende, empowerment programs for youths, and preservation of cultural sites. They have also urged Governor Otti to engage directly with them, rather than through proxies, to address ongoing concerns.

In response, sources close to Governor Otti have downplayed the rejection, describing it as "internal politicking" that does not detract from his administration's achievements. An aide, speaking anonymously, noted that Otti remains focused on delivering dividends of democracy and is open to dialogues with all groups. Ikwechegh, for his part, has not issued a direct rebuttal, but his office released a statement affirming his right to personal opinions while respecting communal views.

As Abia State inches toward 2027, this episode serves as a reminder of the intricate web of loyalties, histories, and ambitions that define Nigerian subnational politics. The Old Bende Group's firm stance against Ikwechegh's endorsement could either isolate Otti or galvanize him to build stronger coalitions. Whatever the outcome, it underscores the importance of unity and consultation in a state still healing from years of governance challenges. Observers will be watching closely to see how these dynamics evolve, potentially shaping not just Abia's future but offering lessons for other states grappling with similar issues.

This unfolding drama also ties into national trends, where early endorsements and rejections are becoming commonplace as parties prepare for the 2027 general elections. In Abia, with its mix of ethnic sensitivities and economic potentials, the path to 2027 promises to be anything but straightforward. Governor Otti, lauded for his no-nonsense approach to governance, now faces the test of political diplomacy. Will he mend fences with groups like Old Bende, or will such rejections snowball into broader opposition? Only time will tell, but for now, the rejection stands as a bold assertion of communal autonomy in the face of individual political maneuvers.

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Read the Full legit Article at:
[ https://www.legit.ng/nigeria/1666887-old-bende-group-rejects-ikwecheghs-endorsement-gov-otti-2027/ ]