Abia Government Condemns Unlawful Political Campaign by Former Governor Ikpeazu, Warns Against Destabilizing Acts
The Abia State Government has strongly condemned what it describes as an unlawful and premature political campaign orchestrated by former Governor Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu at his Umuobiakwa residence in Obingwa Local Government Area. The government expressed concern over the former governor’s actions, warning that such political maneuvering violates Nigeria’s constitutional provisions and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines.
The statement was issued by the Hon. Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, who decried the gathering as “politically charged and ill-timed,” noting that while no official declaration was made, Dr. Ikpeazu’s directive to supporters to “deliver their booths and units” ahead of upcoming elections clearly signals the start of unauthorized campaign activities.
Kanu further criticized the former governor for boasting about his election rigging strategies, stating that such remarks are reckless and an affront to the democratic progress the state is striving to achieve. “He forgets it failed him in the 2023 senatorial race, where he placed a distant third,” the release noted sharply.
Government’s Position: Rule of Law Must Prevail
While affirming the right of every citizen, including the former governor, to free speech and political participation, the government stressed that such liberties must be exercised within the confines of the law. The Commissioner described Ikpeazu’s rhetoric as inflammatory and a potential threat to the peace and security Abians currently enjoy.
“It is preposterous that Dr. Ikpeazu used this illegal platform to not only mobilize politically but also to launch a tirade of misinformation and attack the current administration,” the statement read. “This conduct is unbecoming of a former governor and disrespects the office he once held.”
Governor Otti’s Administration Focused on Development
The statement emphasized that the Otti-led administration remains focused on rebuilding the state, restoring public trust in governance, and delivering dividends of democracy to all citizens. The government called on well-meaning Abians to disregard distractions and stay committed to peace and progress.
“This is a pivotal moment in Abia’s journey. Distractions and provocations will not be tolerated. Those who had the opportunity to lead but failed should not now seek to destabilize the peace we are building,” the Information Commissioner stated.
Public Reaction and Final Warning
The government acknowledged the displeasure voiced by many Abians over the political gathering and urged the public to remain calm and law-abiding, cautioning against being drawn into provocations. It issued a stern final warning that the ban on political campaigns remains in force, and any individual engaging in early campaigns is breaking the law.
“Government will not sit idly by and allow any group or individual to heat up the polity. We will use all legal instruments at our disposal to protect the peace and security of the state,” the statement concluded.
Prince Okey Kanu reiterated that Governor Alex Otti’s administration is committed to good governance, the rule of law, and the welfare of all Abians, warning that any further breach would be met with decisive legal action.
“A word, they say, is enough for the wise,” the release ended.
