“Stop the Noise, We’re Busy Working” — Gov. Otti Blasts Opposition as PDP Lawmaker Defects to Labour Party

Governor Alex Otti breaks silence on opposition criticism in Abia as a PDP lawmaker defects to Labour. Find out what he said and what this means politically.

UMUAHIA – April 29, 2025 | All Facts Newspaper

Governor Alex Otti has issued a blunt response to rising criticism from opposition politicians in Abia State, stating categorically that he is not distracted by what he termed “the noise” from opposition quarters.

The Governor made this statement at the Government House, Umuahia, while receiving Hon. Nnamdi Ibekwe, the member representing Bende North State Constituency, who officially dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the ruling Labour Party in Abia State.

Reacting to speculations and criticisms coming from members of the opposition, Governor Otti said most of the so-called political aspirants were not serious contenders but were merely positioning themselves for personal gains.

“We are not bothered about the oppositions and their noise,” the Governor said pointedly. “There are different reasons why people show up during elections. Some do so just for recognition — they want their names on the ballot even when they know they won’t win. Others come for negotiations, and then we have those projecting into the distant future, thinking that if they start making noise in 2025, they will be recognized by 2040.”

In a direct swipe at his critics, Otti added, “We respond with results, not words. While they are busy making noise, we are busy working — fulfilling our mandate to serve Abians with integrity.”

Governor Otti also used the occasion to commend Hon. Ibekwe for taking the bold step to join the Labour Party, noting that his defection was not influenced by pressure or political bargaining. He emphasized that the Labour Party welcomes members based on merit, not party history.

“Hon. Ibekwe joined us of his own volition. We don’t discriminate in the Labour Party — once you’re in, you’re one of us. And you are already a ranking member,” he said, assuring him of an official reception ceremony in the near future.

Hon. Ibekwe, in his remarks, said he was motivated to switch allegiance by the visible achievements of Governor Otti, which he described as “unprecedented in Abia’s recent history.”

“This is the best time for the people of Abia State,” Ibekwe declared. “Governor Otti is a visionary leader, and I want to assure you that my supporters and I are fully behind your 2027 re-election bid.”

The defection was witnessed by top stakeholders from Bende North including the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze; Labour Party stalwart, Chief Uwakwe Maduka; former Commissioner for Boundary Matters, Mr. Mascot Obike; and even Abia APC spokesman, Mr. Okey Ezeala — a development that has triggered speculation about more defections to come.