Abia State Deputy Governor, Engineer Ikechukwu Emetu, has strongly refuted claims that he threatened President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the ongoing detention of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, or vowed political repercussions in the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Chukwudi Mba, the Deputy Governor described a viral publication titled “2027: Abia State Govt Will Teach Tinubu A Bitter Lesson Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention, Deputy Governor Emetu” as completely fabricated and a deliberate attempt to misrepresent his position.
The statement emphasized that the report is baseless, lacking any verifiable details such as the date, venue, or context of the alleged remarks. It pointed out that no official event, interview, press briefing, or public appearance exists in which Engr. Emetu made the quoted statements.
“At no time did the Deputy Governor threaten to ‘teach’ President Bola Tinubu or any member of his family a ‘bitter political lesson,’ nor did he make the reckless remarks credited to him concerning the 2027 general elections or the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu,” the statement read.
The Deputy Governor’s office further noted that the language attributed to him is inconsistent with his character, temperament, and approach to leadership. As a public official, Engr. Emetu is committed to civil discourse, democratic principles, and issue-based politics rather than inflammatory or divisive rhetoric.
While acknowledging that Nnamdi Kanu’s detention remains a sensitive national issue capable of stirring strong emotions, the Deputy Governor reiterated his belief that such matters should be resolved through lawful, constitutional channels and constructive dialogue, not threats or intimidation.
The statement expressed concern over the publication of such serious allegations without prior verification or confirmation from the Deputy Governor’s office, warning that fabricated quotes attributed to public figures are unethical and risk escalating political tensions while misleading the public.
Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu reaffirmed his dedication to supporting Governor Alex Otti in delivering effective governance, driving development projects, and reinforcing democratic institutions across Abia State.
The denial comes amid circulating reports, some of which originated from online platforms and social media, that had quoted the Deputy Governor making pointed criticisms of the President and his family in connection with Kanu’s case. However, the official response categorically dismisses these as false and misleading.
