The Abia State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the State government have locked horns over allegations that Governor Alex Otti is attempting to suppress opposition in the state.
In a statement issued by the PDP's State Publicity Secretary, Eric Ikwuagwu, the party accused the governor of ordering the arrest of several of its Working Committee members and other opposition figures.
According to the party, the individuals have been missing, with their phones unreachable and their current locations unknown.
The PDP specifically mentioned the detention of Henry Chilaka, former chairman of the Abia State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, along with four other party members.
The PDP further accused the Department of State Services (DSS) of abducting Onyekachi Nwabueze, who was allegedly detained without access to legal representation. The party claimed that such actions were part of a broader strategy to frustrate opposition in the state.
According to the PDP, “The only ‘offense’ of these individuals is their strong and constructive criticism of Governor Otti’s administration, particularly regarding controversial policies such as the mass dismissal of workers without due process, the awarding of contracts without public tender, and the blatant conflict of interest in the management of state affairs.
“But in a strategic move to hold the state government accountable through formalised opposition, the Abia PDP created a PDP shadow government, appointing members to mirror the activities of each state ministry, with the intent of offering alternative, informed perspectives on government policies.
“This initiative clearly provoked Governor Otti, who, in a rare move, declared during a media interaction with select journalists in Abia State that he would silence all opposing voices in the region.”
The PDP has appealed to federal authorities, including the National Security Adviser, to intervene and address the escalating situation in Abia State, warning against Governor Otti’s efforts to undermine democratic principles and human rights within the state.
Governor Alex Otti's Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku, dismissed the PDP's accusations, stating that the governor was accustomed to such attacks.
He explained, “Governor Otti is a democrat and has endured relentless criticism from supporters of the previous administration, who are still bitter about their loss in the last election. Some even fabricate lies and spread fake news to incite the public against him.”
Njoku further stated that he could not confirm the arrest of any individuals, as alleged by the PDP.
He also pointed out that certain opposition members had formed a so-called Shadow Government, appointing shadow commissioners and other officials in Abia State. According to Njoku, this act violated the Constitution of Nigeria, the Electoral Act, and even the PDP’s own party constitution.
He stated that it is unprecedented for a group of individuals to form a shadow government under a presidential system.
He also urged the press to extend their inquiry to law enforcement agencies to verify whether any arrests have taken place and the reasons behind them, if so.
