Labour Party Grants Alex Otti Automatic Ticket, Waives Screening and Nomination Fees Ahead of Re-Election Bid

The Labour Party has exempted Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, from its governorship screening process ahead of his anticipated second-term ambition, signaling strong confidence in his leadership and performance in office.

The development was confirmed by the party’s National Chairman, Nenadi Usman, who also serves as chairman of the party’s screening committee.

Speaking while briefing journalists on the outcome of the screening exercise for governorship aspirants, Usman revealed that the party not only granted Otti a waiver from screening but also purchased and presented nomination forms to him free of charge.

According to her, the Labour Party considered the governor too important to be subjected to the same process as other aspirants, describing him as one of the party’s foremost leaders and strongest political symbols.

Usman stated that the decision was taken in recognition of Otti’s contributions to the party and his role in strengthening the Labour Party’s image across the country through his administration in Abia State.

“Is it possible for the leader of the House to come for screening, just like it’s done in other parties, in the same party he helped nurture?” she asked while defending the decision.

She explained that the party leadership voluntarily obtained the forms on behalf of the governor and formally presented them to him during a ceremony organised by the party.

According to her, the gesture was not limited to Otti alone, as several other party members also received nomination forms during the event.

However, she stressed that the waiver granted to the Abia governor reflected the high regard the Labour Party leadership has for him and his administration.

Usman praised Otti for what she described as his commitment to the Labour Party’s core values, including fairness, equal opportunities, accountability, and social justice.

She noted that the governor’s performance in office had helped project the party positively and strengthened public confidence in the Labour Party’s governance model.

The LP chairman further stated that the waiver and free nomination forms were meant to encourage Otti to continue what the party described as quality governance and people-oriented leadership in Abia State.

Since assuming office, Otti has frequently been showcased by Labour Party leaders as one of the party’s most visible success stories, especially at a time when the party continues to position itself as a major alternative force in Nigeria’s political landscape.

The decision to exempt the governor from screening is expected to further consolidate his position within the party ahead of the next governorship election in Abia State.