Alex Otti Vows to Retire From Politics After Tenure, Says It’s Time for Young Nigerians to Lead

Abia State Governor Alex Otti says he plans to leave active politics after completing his tenure, arguing that younger Nigerians should be given the opportunity to take up leadership positions.

Otti made the declaration on Thursday in Umuahia while speaking about the importance of good governance and the need for political leaders to create opportunities for the next generation.

“Once I finish this one, I will retire. Why do I say so? I want the young people to take over,” the governor said.

Otti said good governance was one of the most important things government could provide for citizens. He argued that people who experience effective leadership would be less willing to accept a return to what he described as poor governance.

“So, if you are afraid that we will go back to Egypt, it will never happen,” he said, adding that citizens would assess potential successors and support the person considered most suitable for the job.

The governor also ruled out continuing his political career through the Senate after leaving office. He said he had no interest in seeking a senatorial seat or another political position after his tenure.

“I keep saying it, I’m not interested in anything else. I don’t even want to go to the Senate. I’m not interested,” Otti said.

He also rejected the idea of becoming a political godfather, saying he did not want to control political succession from outside elected office. “I don’t want to be a godfather. And I don’t tolerate godfathers,” he said.

Otti called for an end to what he described as “sit-tight” politics, saying leadership should not remain concentrated in the hands of the same individuals indefinitely. He argued that younger Nigerians with stronger training and new ideas should be given opportunities to contribute to governance.

“We should stop this sit-tight; it’s only you. Not only you, it also can’t be only you. There are smarter, more trained, better trained, better equipped younger people. Our children, we need to give them opportunities,” he said.