Imumolen Defends Visit To Otti, Endorses Abia Governor For 2027

The National Chairman of the Accord Party, Chris Imumolen, has clarified that his recent visit to Alex Otti was solely to commend the governor’s performance, describing it as a demonstration of “outstanding leadership and transformational governance”.

Speaking after the visit, Imumolen said he was impressed by developments across key sectors in Abia State, including infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

He noted that the progress recorded under Otti’s administration reflects a commitment to people-centred governance.

Despite belonging to different political parties, Imumolen stressed that good governance should be acknowledged irrespective of political affiliation.

He subsequently endorsed Otti for re-election in the 2027 general election and directed Accord Party members in Abia State to support the governor’s bid.

“The reward for good work is more work,” he said, adding that opposition politics should not be limited to criticism but should also involve recognising and encouraging effective leadership.

Imumolen dismissed speculation that his endorsement was influenced by financial incentives, insisting it was based purely on his assessment of Otti’s performance.

He further disclosed that the Accord Party under his leadership is considering making financial contributions to support the governor’s future campaign, describing the move as a departure from conventional political practices in Nigeria.

Reacting to claims by a faction led by Maxwell that the endorsement was invalid, Imumolen said the group lacks legitimacy within the party.

He noted that the leadership dispute remains before the Federal High Court, where the recognition of the faction by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is being challenged.

He maintained that there are existing court orders recognising his leadership and accused INEC of failing to fully comply with judicial pronouncements on the matter.

The Imumolen-led faction of the Accord Party reiterated its commitment to supporting competent leaders across party lines, stating that its endorsements are based on performance, competence, and track record rather than political affiliation.

He also dismissed reports of his purported expulsion from the party as baseless and unconstitutional, arguing that no faction involved in ongoing litigation has the authority to expel another.

Imumolen described such claims as “political rascality” and reaffirmed his resolve to build a stronger and more progressive Accord Party, while urging the public to disregard statements from what he termed the “Maxwell faction”.