“Write Your Will” Comment Sparks Outrage — Abia Renaissance Group Demands Probe

The Abia Renaissance Group (ARG), a non-partisan socio-political organization, has called on Nigeria’s top security agencies to investigate Governor Alex Otti over alleged remarks perceived as threats of violence and intimidation against political opponents in the state.

In a statement jointly signed by the group’s Chairman, Surv. Kelechi Uwakwe, and Secretary, Comrade Emma Nwangwu, the ARG expressed concern that recent comments attributed to the governor could heighten political tension and erode the peace Abia State has enjoyed for years.

According to the group, during a recent media chat held in his country home, Governor Otti was quoted as saying that anyone nursing political ambition in the state should “first write his will.” The organization described the comment as “reckless and inciting,” alleging that it has emboldened some of the governor’s supporters to issue open threats against perceived political rivals and ordinary citizens.

“It is worrisome that a sitting governor, whose constitutional duty is to protect lives and property, is the one issuing veiled death threats against Abians exercising their democratic rights,” the statement read. “This statement reinforces fears that the governor’s conduct has encouraged some of his loyalists to intimidate or attack citizens holding opposing political views.”

The group claimed that some political actors in parts of Aba and other communities have allegedly faced harassment and threats from individuals claiming to be supporters of the ruling government. They further recalled what they described as “disturbing scenes of violence and intimidation” during the last local government elections in the state.

Calling for swift intervention, the Abia Renaissance Group urged the National Security Adviser, Inspector-General of Police, and Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to:

1. Invite Governor Alex Otti for questioning over his alleged comments and actions capable of inciting unrest;

2. Investigate reports of intimidation and harassment by his supporters; and

3. Ensure the safety and political freedom of all Abians ahead of future elections.

The group maintained that democracy thrives only in an environment of peace, tolerance, and respect for opposing views.

“We therefore call on all security agencies to act decisively and ensure that no individual, no matter how highly placed, is above the law. Abia belongs to all its people — not to any single man or party,” the statement concluded.

As of the time of this report, there has been no official response from the Abia State Government regarding the allegations.