Abia State Governor Alex Otti has ruled out contesting the presidency or any other elective office after completing his tenure, saying he intends to retire from active politics and give younger Nigerians an opportunity to lead.

Otti stated this in an interview with Arise TV on Friday while responding to questions about the political future of former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and whether he could consider a presidential bid himself.

The governor said he had no disagreement with Obi and would allow him, or any other politician, to campaign in Abia if they chose to do so.

“Peter Obi and I are not fighting. Just like there’s nobody I’m fighting,” Otti said, adding that democracy requires allowing people to campaign freely.

Asked whether he would run for president in the future, Otti said he would retire after completing his tenure.

He has also previously ruled out seeking a Senate seat after leaving office, saying he wants younger people to take over leadership responsibilities. 

Otti further said he had no intention of becoming a political godfather or imposing his successor on Abia State.

“I don’t want to be a godfather and I don’t tolerate godfathers,” he said, adding that stakeholders would consider available candidates and support the person considered suitable to succeed him. 

The governor said his priority was to complete his mandate and leave office after his tenure, rather than remain involved in politics indefinitely.

He also called for an end to what he described as the “sit-tight” approach to political leadership, saying younger Nigerians should be given opportunities to contribute to governance.