Ogah Fires Back At Critics, Defends Support For Otti as “Principled, Not Desperate”; Insists loyalty to APC intact, urges focus on performance over politics

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, has dismissed claims that his recent political stance is driven by desperation for power, describing such assertions as misleading and detrimental to constructive public discourse.

In a statement addressed to the people of Abia State, Ogah said his support for Governor Alex Otti is rooted in principle, personal conviction, and observable progress in governance, rather than political ambition.

He maintained that it is neither improper nor unusual to support competence and effective leadership, even across party lines, stressing that loyalty to values and relationships should not be sacrificed on the altar of partisan rigidity.

“Let me state unequivocally that my position is not motivated by any form of desperation.

Supporting good governance, irrespective of political affiliation, reflects integrity and consistency of character,” he said.

Ogah explained that his stance is anchored on a longstanding relationship with the governor, built on mutual respect and shared ideals, as well as what he described as “tangible and measurable progress” in Abia State under Otti’s administration.

According to him, ongoing improvements in infrastructure, human capital development, and civil service reforms are clear indicators of positive change across the state.
“Governance must be assessed by outcomes rather than rhetoric.

Roads that were once impassable are receiving attention, youth empowerment initiatives are expanding, and civil servants are experiencing improved welfare and timely salary payments,” he noted.

The APC stalwart was quick to dispel speculations of political defection, reaffirming his commitment to the ruling party and its ideals.

He, however, emphasized that governance should transcend partisan boundaries and be evaluated based on its impact on citizens.

“Acknowledging good governance does not amount to ideological compromise. My membership of the APC remains firm and unwavering,” he stated.

Ogah also cautioned against narratives that seek to portray his position as politically motivated, warning that such claims undermine meaningful engagement and distract from the collective goal of developing the state.

He called on political actors and stakeholders to elevate the standard of discourse by focusing on policies and performance rather than propaganda and division.

“At this critical time, Abia needs a political culture that prioritizes collaboration over conflict and the welfare of the people above narrow interests,” he added.

Reiterating his commitment to the progress of Abia State and Nigeria, Ogah urged critics to contribute constructively to governance discussions, stressing that history would judge leaders by their commitment to unity, development, and the common good.