Governor Dr. Alex Otti of Abia State has issued a strong warning against political intimidation and violence, ordering security agencies to arrest and deal decisively with anyone attempting to disrupt lawful political activities in the state, regardless of party affiliation.
Speaking to supporters on Monday, Otti made it clear that no individual or group operates with his authorization to target opposition parties or restrict their members from engaging in political campaigns. He declared that security agencies should arrest and deal decisively with anyone attempting to cause such disruptions, including members of the Labour Party.
The governor's directive comes in response to mounting anxieties over political violence and intimidation ahead of the 2027 general elections. Similar incidents have been reported across multiple states — Delta, Benue, Kaduna, Enugu, Edo, Rivers, Cross River, Kogi, Osun, Kebbi, and Ekiti — highlighting growing concerns over the protection of political freedom and public safety for all registered parties.
Otti's statement signals a broader push by state governors across Nigeria to enforce order during the electoral cycle, as fears of politically motivated attacks on opposition groups continue to spread nationwide.