Abia Issues Strong Warning Over Alleged Violent Protest Plot

The Abia State Government has issued a strong warning over what it described as a planned politically sponsored protest aimed at causing unrest and destabilizing the state ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a special announcement released by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, the government said intelligence reports indicate that some political actors are allegedly planning to sponsor miscreants from Aba and neighbouring states to stage a protest with the slogan "Tinubu Dey Work, Otti Dey Chop.ÔÇØ

According to the statement, the planned protest is allegedly designed to promote what the government described as a false narrative that the Federal Government funded federal road projects and other infrastructure projects currently being executed by the Abia State Government.

The government explained that it had previously clarified the issue of federal government refunds for federal road projects, noting that such refunds had been stopped, contrary to claims being circulated in some political circles.

The statement further alleged that the planned protest could be escalated into violence with the intention of creating a confrontation between the protesters and the state task force in Aba, which could lead to injuries, deaths, reprisals, and a breakdown of law and order.

The government warned that such a situation, if allowed to happen, could create instability and make the state ungovernable as political activities begin to build toward the 2027 general elections.

The Abia State Government stressed that while it recognizes the right of citizens to express disagreement with government policies and programmes as part of democratic practice, it would not tolerate any attempt by individuals or groups to endanger the lives of citizens under the guise of political protest.

The government also called on parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against participating in any politically sponsored protest that could lead to violence or destruction of property.

Authorities emphasized that the government has the capacity and determination to maintain law and order and would take decisive action against anyone found to be involved in activities capable of threatening the peace and stability of the state.

The statement concluded by assuring residents that the government remains committed to maintaining peace, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that the political space remains open for lawful political activities without intimidation or violence.

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