Abia Gov’t Condemns Ikpeazu’s ‘Unlawful Campaign Activities’, Warns Against Provocation
The Abia State Government has strongly condemned what it describes as an “unlawful political campaign” by former governor, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, calling on residents to remain calm amidst what it termed provocations.
In a press release signed by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, as seen by THE WHISTLER on Tuesday, the government accused Dr. Ikpeazu of convening a politically charged gathering at his residence in Umuobiakwa, Obingwa Local Government Area, involving his former aides, political associates, and some members of the public.
According to the release, the meeting which occurred a few days ago, appeared to be a clear violation of constitutional provisions and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines on political campaigns.
“Though Dr. Ikpeazu fell short of formally declaring his political ambition, his direct instruction to his audience to ‘deliver their booths and units’ during upcoming elections unmistakably signals the start of a political campaign,” the statement read in part.
The statement also alleged that the former governor made a veiled reference to his knowledge of election rigging, recalling that it failed him during the 2023 senatorial race where he finished third.
While acknowledging the former governor’s right to free speech and association, the government insisted such rights must be exercised within the confines of the law. It described his remarks as reckless and capable of inciting unrest in the state.
“It is preposterous that Dr. Ikpeazu chose to exploit this illegal platform not only to mobilize politically but also to launch a vicious tirade of misinformation and attacks against the current administration,” the statement added.
The government described the conduct as “unbecoming of a former governor” and stressed the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the state. It reiterated that Governor Alex Otti’s administration remains focused on rebuilding Abia and restoring public trust in leadership.
It also thanked citizens who have expressed concern over the development and urged all Abians to remain peaceful and law-abiding.
“While the government frowns at this irresponsible behavior by the former Governor and his co-travelers, we want to issue a final warning that the ban on campaigns has not been lifted and anyone campaigning now is breaking the law and trying to heat up the polity,” the release warned.
The statement concluded by affirming the government’s resolve to uphold peace, law, and order in the state, stating: “A word, they say, is enough for the wise.”
Abia Gov’t Condemns Ikpeazu’s ‘Unlawful Campaign Activities’, Warns Against Provocation is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
