Ogah defends support for Otti, dismisses ‘desperation for power’ claims

Former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development and ex-governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, has dismissed claims that his recent political stance is driven by desperation for power.

In a statement addressed to the people of Abia State, Ogah said his support for Governor Alex Otti is based on principle, personal conviction, and observable performance, rather than political ambition.

He described insinuations about his motives as unfounded, stressing that backing competent leadership, even across party lines, should not be misconstrued as political opportunism.

“It is neither improper nor unusual to support competence and effective leadership, even across political divides,” he said, adding that loyalty to values and relationships should not be sacrificed for partisan rigidity.

Ogah maintained that his position is rooted in a longstanding relationship with the governor, built on mutual respect and shared ideals. He said acknowledging Otti’s efforts in governance reflects integrity rather than desperation.

The former minister also pointed to what he described as measurable progress in Abia State under Otti’s administration, citing improvements in infrastructure, youth empowerment initiatives, and reforms in the civil service, including better welfare and regular salary payments.

According to him, governance should be judged by tangible outcomes rather than political rhetoric, noting that the changes being witnessed are evident to residents across the state.

He clarified that his support for the governor does not amount to a defection from the All Progressives Congress, reaffirming his loyalty to the party and its ideals.

“Governance must transcend partisan boundaries. Leadership should be evaluated by its capacity to deliver security, economic advancement, and improved quality of life,” Ogah said.

He warned that attempts to label his stance as desperation undermine constructive political engagement and distract from efforts to advance the state.

Ogah called on critics to focus on policy-driven contributions rather than personal attacks, urging stakeholders to prioritise collaboration and the welfare of citizens.

He added that Abia State requires a political culture that emphasises performance, unity, and accountability, rather than division and misinformation.

The former governorship aspirant reiterated his commitment to the development of Abia State and Nigeria, insisting that his support for good governance remains unwavering.