Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Abia State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) has declared that the era of winning elections through intimidation and violence is over, launching a blistering attack on former governor and senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, over alleged threats ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a strongly worded statement on Tuesday, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Chidiebere Okoro, accused Kalu of resorting to “thuggery and coercion” following reported threats at a recent political gathering.
The LP said the comments reflected “panic and desperation,” insisting that Abia voters would determine electoral outcomes strictly through the ballot.
“Abians can no longer be intimidated. The days of electoral violence and result manipulation are gone,” the party stated.
The party also faulted Kalu’s criticism of Governor Alex Otti, describing his claims on infrastructure and governance as “falsehoods and distortions.”
It specifically dismissed allegations that ongoing road projects were merely renovations of past works, arguing that several key routes across the state were either abandoned or in deplorable condition before the current administration intervened.
The LP further challenged Kalu to make good his threat to “open the books” on Abia’s finances, warning that such a move could reopen scrutiny of his own record in office.
The statement also alleged that Kalu’s outbursts followed failed attempts to secure political alignment with the current government, adding that his rhetoric had become increasingly combative.
While reaffirming support for the Otti administration, the party maintained that no amount of “blackmail or threats” would derail governance or democratic processes in the state.
“The era of threats, thuggery and terror is over. Abia people will decide their future through free and fair elections,” the statement added.
