JUST IN: PRESS STATEMENT / PETITION
Group Calls on IGP, NSA, and DSS to Investigate Governor Alex Otti Over Alleged Threats of Violence Against Abians.
The Abia Renaissance Group (ARG), a non-partisan socio-political organization committed to the peace, unity, and democratic stability of Abia State, has called on the Inspector-General of Police, the National Security Adviser, and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to urgently investigate Governor Alex Otti over alleged threats of violence and the increasing wave of intimidation against citizens in the state.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Surv. Kelechi Uwakwe, and Secretary, Comrade Emma Nwangwu, the group expressed deep concern over what it described as “reckless and inciting utterances” recently made by the governor, which it said have emboldened some of his supporters to openly threaten perceived political opponents and ordinary citizens.
According to the group, Governor Otti’s recent comments during a media chat in his country home — where he allegedly warned that anyone nursing political ambition in Abia should “first write his will” — amount to a direct incitement to violence and a gross abuse of his office as the Chief Security Officer of the state.
“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. This statement reinforces fears that the governor’s conduct has emboldened his supporters to intimidate or attack citizens holding opposing political views,” the group stated.
The Abia Renaissance Group further alleged that several of the governor’s supporters have issued open threats to prevent other political actors from campaigning freely in parts of the state, particularly in Aba, warning that such individuals risk being “stoned or attacked” if they attempt to mobilize there.
“Abia has historically enjoyed peace and political tolerance. Sadly, the governor’s recent utterances have introduced a new wave of fear and tension. We recall the disturbing scenes of violence and intimidation during the last local government elections — acts allegedly carried out by his loyalists,” the statement continued.
Consequently, the group called on the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Director-General of the DSS to immediately:
Invite Governor Alex Otti for questioning over his recent public comments and any actions capable of inciting violence;
Investigate all reported cases of intimidation and threats allegedly issued by his supporters across the state; and
Guarantee the safety and political freedom of all Abians, regardless of their political affiliation, ahead of future elections.
The group emphasized that democracy can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, fairness, and mutual respect — where citizens are free to express their political choices without fear or coercion.
“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.
