The governorship candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) in Abia State, Chief Etugo Ndubuisi Ogah, has dismissed claims that he is a placeholder candidate, insisting that he is the authentic flag bearer of the party for the 2027 governorship election.
Ogah stated this while addressing women leaders of the NDC in Umuahia, where he said his candidacy had been officially recognised, with his name already published on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal as the party’s governorship candidate in Abia.
He said the publication should end speculations aimed at creating uncertainty over the party’s candidate ahead of the election.
The NDC candidate also clarified that the party was distinct from the Labour Party, stressing that it had its own structure, identity and candidates.
According to him, Mr Peter Obi is the presidential candidate of the NDC, while the Labour Party has its own presidential and governorship candidates.
“The NDC has no affiliation with the Labour Party. Labour Party has its own governorship candidate in Abia and its presidential candidate. Nobody should use the name of the NDC presidential candidate to seek favour or create confusion,” he said.
Ogah said his decision to contest the governorship election was motivated by a desire to provide Abians with an alternative political platform and chart what he described as a new direction for the state.
He criticised the administration of Governor Alex Otti, alleging that the government had not adequately managed the state’s resources for the benefit of its citizens.
He cited the reported ₦1 billion expenditure on Hilux vehicles as an issue requiring greater scrutiny, arguing that it raised questions about transparency, accountability and government priorities.
Ogah also questioned the reported ₦6.5 billion expenditure on a recreational facility and the allocation of ₦54 billion for 51 smart schools, which he claimed were yet to be seen.
He accused the administration of placing excessive emphasis on publicity at the expense of tangible development, and pledged that an NDC government under his leadership would redirect public resources towards programmes with direct impact on the people.
The NDC candidate listed human capital development, job creation, infrastructure, education, healthcare, industrialisation and support for small and medium-scale enterprises among his priorities.
He further promised to promote transparency and accountability in the management of public funds, stressing that government should serve the interests of the people rather than personal or political interests.
Ogah urged Abians to assess the records, policies and programmes of all political parties and candidates ahead of the 2027 election, rather than relying on rumours and political propaganda.
He assured party members that the NDC would continue its preparations for the election and take its campaign across the state to present its vision and agenda to the electorate.
He also called on supporters to remain united and focused as the party intensifies its mobilisation ahead of the 2027 polls.
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