Re: GOVERNMENT CONDEMNS UNLAWFUL POLITICAL CAMPAIGN BY FORMER GOVERNOR IKPEAZU… CALLS FOR CALM AMIDST PROVOCATIONS.

The State Publicity Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Chief Eric Ikwuagwu in the release state that the recent press release from Abia State Government, condemning a private non-partisan political gathering hosted by former Governor Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, reeks of desperation, politics of emotional insecurity, fear, panic and a blatant attempt to silence opposition under the guise of “rule of law.”

Abia State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), unequivocally states that there is no known law in Nigeria that prohibits citizens, including former governors from holding private meetings or expressing political views. Dr. Ikpeazu has every right, both constitutionally and morally to assemble with his supporters and discuss political matters, especially in his own residence. What Otti’s government has maliciously labeled as “unlawful political campaigning” is nothing more than opposition political engagement, where notes are compared and policies of government scrutinised, which is the bedrock of any democracy.

If the government is confused about what constitutes a campaign, we suggest they consult a dictionary or seek clarification from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

This administration’s selective outrage is laughable. Where was this so-called respect for INEC guidelines when current government officials, supporters, and even Governor Otti himself were openly participating in political rallies thinly disguised as “civic receptions, thanksgiving services, endorsements, birthday parties, adoptions as sole candidate, and town hall meetings”? The hypocrisy is staggering.

Instead of these fear-driven political battles, incurable Ikpeazu obsession, imaginary INEC violations and the continues witch-hunting of perceived opponents, Otti should redirect his energy towards fulfilling his campaign promises, which he is clearly struggling with, despite the heavy reliance on propaganda to exaggerate minimal progress.

Take for instance, security in Abia is at all time low, projects are executed at grossly inflated costs, fiscal recklessness is rampant, and conflict of interest appears to be the new normal. Civil servants are groaning under poor working conditions, welfare of Abians is at ground zero, while economic progress remains largely theoretical. Yet, in the midst of these pressing challenges, the government prioritises issuing lengthy press statements over a private meeting that poses absolutely no threat to public peace.

Calling Dr. Ikpeazu’s remarks “provocative” or “inciting” is not only dishonest, it is cowardly. The real threat to peace is not a former governor exercising his freedom of speech, but a sitting government trying to intimidate dissenting voices with thinly veiled threats and shameless propaganda.

Let it be clearly put on record that Abia PDP will never succumb to intimidation. Abians are watching closely as this government introduces a dangerous and undemocratic dimension to Abia politics. We will not be bullied into silence, nor will we allow fragile egos to masquerade as governance.

If this administration is truly confident in its so-called achievements, it should embrace healthy political competition, not deploy undemocratic means to intimidate opponents.

We still vividly recall how former President Goodluck Jonathan faced similar political persecution from his successor, used as a smokescreen to cover up his own failures in governance. Unfortunately for Mr. Otti, that tactic will not work for long with Abians. So, get to work, Sir. You were elected to work not to whine.