A socio-political organisation, the Abia Renaissance Group (ARG), has called on Nigeria’s top security authorities to investigate Governor Alex Otti over alleged threats of violence and increasing intimidation against citizens in Abia State.
In a petition addressed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the National Security Adviser (NSA), and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), the group said Otti’s recent public comments could incite unrest and undermine the state’s peace and democratic stability.
The group, in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Surv. Kelechi Uwakwe, and Secretary, Comrade Emma Nwangwu, expressed deep concern over what it described as “reckless and inciting utterances” by the governor. It alleged that some of Otti’s supporters had since been emboldened to issue open threats against perceived political opponents and ordinary citizens.
“It is worrisome that a sitting governor, whose duty is to protect lives and property, is the one issuing veiled death threats against Abians exercising their democratic rights,” the statement read. “This confirms long-standing fears that the governor has been tacitly encouraging his supporters to attack or intimidate citizens who hold opposing political views.”
The ARG cited Otti’s reported remarks during a media chat at his country home, where he allegedly warned anyone harbouring political ambitions in the state to “first write his will”. The group described the statement as a “direct incitement to violence” and an “abuse of his office as Chief Security Officer of the state.”
It further alleged that some of the governor’s loyalists had threatened to “stone or machete” political actors who attempted to campaign in certain areas, especially within Aba.
“Abia has enjoyed a history of peace and political tolerance. Sadly, the governor’s recent conduct has introduced fear and tension,” the statement continued.
The group urged security agencies to invite Governor Otti for questioning, investigate threats issued by his supporters, and guarantee the political safety of all Abians ahead of future elections.
“No individual, no matter how highly placed, should be allowed to undermine the peace and security of the state,” the ARG declared. “Abia belongs to all, not to a single man or party.”