2027: Former Ukwa West Mayor Declares ‘Otti or Nothing’, Vows Labour Party Victory

2027: Former Ukwa West Mayor Declares ‘Otti or Nothing’, Vows Labour Party Victory

Former Premier Mayor of Ukwa West Local Government Area, Newman Azuh, has declared his total support for Governor Alex Otti’s re-election bid, insisting that the Labour Party has a strong political grip on the area ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

Azuh, who was appointed the first mayor of Ukwa West by Governor Otti, said he and his political associates were already mobilising support at the grassroots for the governor’s second-term bid.

Speaking during an interview with pressmen, the former mayor displayed a cap bearing the message “Otti or Nothing” and said his commitment to the governor’s re-election was unwavering.

He maintained that the governor enjoys strong support in his Ward and across Ukwa West, arguing that there is currently no serious political competition against the administration in the area.

According to him, recent grassroots political activities have further demonstrated the level of support for Otti and the Labour Party.

“Like yesterday, we had a mini party gathering, and it is on record that there is no competition against His Excellency. This place is secured for 4-over-4,” he declared.

Azuh also said his political influence extends beyond his immediate community and promised to deploy his grassroots network in support of the governor.

“All other political party activities concerning the Labour Party, we are fully in charge on the ground here. There is no shaking around this area. We will deliver,” he said.

The former mayor’s comments come as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, with supporters of the Otti administration increasingly highlighting projects and policies they say have changed the state.

Azuh also used the occasion of Abia’s anniversary to reaffirm his confidence in the governor, comparing the state under Otti to a ship with a capable captain.

He said Abians could be confident about the direction of the state because of what he described as the governor’s quality and character.

With grassroots mobilisation already underway, Azuh’s declaration signals that supporters of the Otti administration in Ukwa West intend to make the oil-producing local government a stronghold for the governor ahead of 2027.