The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, recently stirred political conversation when he described Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, as a “prodigal son” during the ceremony for the Abia International Airport.

Keyamo hinted that Otti, who has switched political allegiances over the years, might eventually return to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Alex Otti’s political journey has seen several shifts. Originally a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), he joined the APC in 2020.

However, in the build-up to the 2023 general elections, Otti moved to the Labour Party (LP), a decision that ultimately led to his successful gubernatorial campaign and his victory as Governor of Abia State.

His victory signaled a significant political shift in the state, traditionally dominated by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

During his speech, Keyamo chose to focus on Otti’s political journey in a light-hearted manner, likening him to the biblical prodigal son.

“Today is not a day for politics,” Keyamo remarked.

“But yes, he strayed away. He was with us, and he strayed away like the prodigal son.”

The ceremony was a significant moment for Abia State, with the proposed Abia International Airport set to be located in Nsulu, in the Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area.

Keyamo revealed that President Bola Tinubu’s decision to approve the location of the airport was influenced by his admiration for Governor Otti’s leadership and the support he commands among the people of Abia State.

“The President’s motivation was also the fact that he loves the governor of this state,” Keyamo stated.

“He loves his spirit. I know the comments he has made about the governor and how much people here love him.”