The Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, has attributed the escalating insecurity and criminal activities in the state to the actions of opposition politicians, allegedly in collaboration with unnamed external parties. This revelation was made in a statement released on Monday through his media aide, Ferdinand Ekeoma.
Abia State, like other parts of the South-East, has recently witnessed a surge in violent attacks. Among the most alarming incidents was the killing of two Nigerian soldiers at a checkpoint on the Umuahia-Owerri Road in Ekeneobizi Community, Umuahia South Local Government Area. Similarly, a police operative lost his life on Sunday when gunmen attacked the convoy of a lawmaker in the state.
The federal government has often pointed fingers at the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) for such attacks. However, IPOB has consistently denied any involvement, distancing itself from these violent acts. Governor Otti, in his statement, argued that credible intelligence from residents of Abia State has revealed that the violence is being orchestrated by opposition politicians who aim to destabilize the current administration.
According to the governor, these individuals began their campaign of violence in May 2024, shortly after the inauguration of his government. He accused them of seeking to sow disaffection among the people and distract the government from its developmental objectives. Governor Otti asserted that the opposition’s initial strategy of spreading falsehoods and propaganda had failed to gain traction among Abians, prompting them to resort to sponsoring violence.
Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and order in the state, stressing that the government would not be blackmailed or intimidated. He issued a stern warning to those responsible for the insecurity, emphasizing that his administration would adopt stringent measures to “smoke them out” and dismantle all forms of criminal operations in Abia State.
The governor disclosed that a robust counter-offensive had been launched to tackle the criminal elements and eradicate their influence. He called on the people of Abia to support the government’s efforts by cooperating with security operatives and providing actionable intelligence.
In his appeal to community leaders and traditional rulers, Governor Otti urged vigilance and the prompt reporting of suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies. Additionally, he encouraged parents and guardians to monitor their children and wards to prevent their involvement in criminal activities.
The governor concluded by issuing a strong warning to those attempting to politicize the lives and property of innocent residents, stating that such actions would not be tolerated. He assured Abians that his administration is fully prepared to safeguard the lives and properties of all citizens, ensuring a secure and peaceful environment for growth and development.
