Playing Politics With Abia Security Dangerous, PDP Warns Gov Otti

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Abia State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP,  has urged Governor Alex Otti to stop  blaming perceived political foes for the poor security situation in the State, but to collaborate with Security Agencies to protect the lives and properties of the people.

The PDP’s position comes in the wake of the Abia State Government’s accusation of the opposition as being responsible for the spate of violent criminal activities rocking the State since May this year.

In a statement issued late on Sunday, November 17, 2024, by Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Governor’s Media Adviser, the State Government noted that intelligence at his disposal has established that some opposition forces working in tandem with external enablers are behind the  orchestrated moves to disrupt the peace of the State.

It alleged that the opposition having failed to incite Abians through propaganda, has turned to instigating violence with the ultimate aim of  distracting the  Government  on its mandate of providing democracy dividends to the people.

It warned that it will  henceforth deal decisively with anybody or group of persons found to be creating fear in the minds of innocent and law abiding residents of Abia state

But  the PDP in a statement on Monday, November 18, from its spokesperson Eric Ikwugwu, warned that playing politics with the security of lives and properties of Abians by the State Government will only be counterproductive and dangerous.

The Party noted that what is needed to combat the disturbing security situation in the state is a comprehensive framework beyond mere rhetorics.

“It is crucial that Governor Otti’s administration does not sow seed of discord among the people of Abia State.

“Instead, we call on the Government to work collaboratively with security agencies and provide them with any concrete evidence that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the killings of innocent citizens .

“Playing politics with the lives of Abians is not only counterproductive, but dangerous.

“We want to remind the current administration that combating insecurity demands strategies beyond mere declarations.

The former Governor of Abia state, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, understood the vital link between poverty and insecurity. He empowered over 7000 Abians monthly, recognizing that economic stability is a proactive approach to mitigating violence and crime.

“We appeal to Governor Alex Otti to prioritize poverty reduction initiatives and engage all stakeholders, including community leaders and traditional rulers in addressing these challenges head-on .

“The opposition’s constitutional responsibility is to provide constructive criticisms and present alternative perspectives without fear of intimidation.

“It is not only right but our duty to hold the Government accountable. We insist that Governor Otti’s administration, must take the necessary steps to address the worsening security situation with sincerity and integrity, rather than  resorting to slanderous campaigns against perceived opponents”, part of the PDP statement reads.

The Source reports that the Governor’s allegations were provoked by the gruesome attack and murder of some solders at a military checkpoint in Umuokpara, Umuahia South local Council on  Wednesday November 13 ,as well as the earlier killings of five soldiers in May 2024 at a military checkpoint in.Obikabia Junction Aba North Local Government.