Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has threatened to take strong action against those behind the recent rise in violence and insecurities in the state.
The governor’s warning follows reliable intelligence and tips from concerned citizens about the activities of unpatriotic individuals and groups causing unrest.
In a statement on Monday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, accused certain politicians and external collaborators of orchestrating the violence to create disaffection and distract the government.
The statement said, “It has been firmly established that some unpatriotic politicians, in connivance with external parties, are behind the current wave of violence and crime in the state since the end of May this year. Their goal is to instill fear and distract the government from its focus on development.”
The governor Alex Otti pledged to take decisive steps to protect the people and warned that no individual or group would be allowed to threaten the peace in Abia State.
“Having sworn an oath to protect the lives and property of Abians, Governor Alex Otti’s administration will not hesitate to deploy all resources and institutional forces to smoke out those behind the attacks, kidnappings, and violence,” the statement added.
Ekeoma also announced the launch of a new counter-offensive to dismantle criminal networks in the state. He urged citizens to avoid harboring strangers or suspicious individuals and to report any unusual activities to the authorities.
“All innocent and peace-loving residents of Abia should go about their legitimate businesses without fear, as the government is committed to ensuring their safety,” he said.
The statement called on community and traditional leaders to remain vigilant and assist law enforcement by reporting any threats to peace. Parents and guardians were also urged to monitor the activities of their children to prevent involvement in criminal activities.
Otti continued with a strong warning to those playing politics with the security of the state, saying, “Anyone attempting to endanger the lives and property of innocent Abians should be ready to face the consequences, regardless of their status or connections.”
This follows recent reports of violent attacks, including the killing of two soldiers in Umuahia South Local Government Area, underscoring the government’s urgency in addressing the situation.
