Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Abia State Government, has cautioned the immediate-past Governor Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, and his former aides, to be careful of their utterances, and to refrain from making remarks capable of plunging the state into political unrest.
The warning which was contained in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, is coming few days after Ikpeazu, now an Ambassador designate, hosted some of his former aides in his Umuobiakwa, Obingwa country home.
Abia State Government, in the statement, accused the “former Governor and his co-travellers” of engaging in comments capable of igniting tension and political unrest in the state.
Calling for restraint, the statement warned that Abia Government would not hesitate to take action against anyone trying to distabilise the sate or disrupt its prevailing peace.
The statement read: “The Abia State Government wishes to bring to public attention a disturbing development involving the former Governor of the state, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, who, a few days ago, convened a politically charged gathering at his Umuobiakwa residence in Obingwa Local Government Area. This assembly, featuring his former aides, political associates, and a cross-section of locals, was not only ill-timed but clearly violates constitutional provisions and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines regulating political campaigns in Nigeria.
“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, an act that constitutes a breach of INEC’s established rules. He went further to make a veiled comment about his expertise in election …, forgetting that it failed him in the 2023 Senatorial race where he placed a distant 3rd.”
“Abia Government acknowledged citizens’ rights to free speech and association, such rights must not be abused.
“As a government anchored on the principles of rule of law, democratic values, and respect for citizens’ rights to free speech and association, we acknowledge the former governor’s right to express himself. However, we must emphasize that such rights must be exercised responsibly and strictly within the bounds of the law.
“It is, therefore, 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. Such reckless commentary not only disrespects the office he once held but also has the dangerous potential of inciting unrest and destabilizing the peace Abians currently enjoy.
“We find this conduct unbecoming of a former governor who, more than anyone else, should understand the weight of his words and the importance of sustaining a peaceful environment.”
The statement further read: “The current administration under Governor Alex Otti is focused on rebuilding Abia State from the ruins of misgovernance and restoring public trust in leadership. We are at a pivotal moment in our state’s journey where distractions would not be tolerated.
“At a time when every well-meaning Abian is called to support the government in delivering the dividends of democracy, it is regrettable that Dr. Ikpeazu and his political allies have chosen the path of provocation and incitement.
“We acknowledge and appreciate the numerous Abians who have voiced their displeasure over this development. We urge all peace-loving citizens to remain calm, law-abiding, and not be drawn into the antics of those who had their chance to build Abia but squandered it.”
It warned of severe consequences of any attempt by anybody to rupture the peace of the state.
“While 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 have not been lifted and any one campaigning now is breaking the law and trying to heat up the polity. Government will not sit idly by and allow that to happen.
“Let it be known that this administration remains resolute in its commitment to good governance, peace, and security. We will continue to protect the rights of all citizens while using all legal instruments at our disposal to ensure that Abia State remains stable, secure, and peaceful. A word, they say, is enough for the wise.”
