As Nigeria gradually edges toward the 2027 general elections, two South-East governors are attracting public attention for their contrasting approaches to political campaigning and democratic engagement.
In Abia State, Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed what he describes as a commitment to open political competition, insisting that opposition parties are free to operate without fear or restriction, provided they follow due process.
“We welcome competition from opposition in Abia State. Any opposition party is free to apply for any location they want in Abia State for campaign, as long as they pay the required fee for the venue. Once you pay, I will make the venue available for you. It is now left for the people of Abia State to decide who they want to follow. The days of panic are gone,” Otti stated, adding that a healthy democracy must allow free access and fair contestation.
He further noted that the era where political actors are denied access to campaign venues after payment should be a thing of the past, stressing that confidence in governance is demonstrated through openness rather than restriction.
Meanwhile, in Anambra State, the government under Governor Chukwuma Soludo has introduced a structured financial framework for political campaign activities ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to the announced guidelines, presidential candidates are expected to pay ₦50 million for outdoor campaign activities, while senatorial candidates are required to pay ₦20 million.
