Press Statement
The attention of the All Progressives Congress in Abia State, has been drawn to a recent press statement issued by the Abia State Government alleging that the opposition is planning to stage a protest. tagged “Tinubu Dey Work, Otti Dey Chop.”
Ordinarily, the responsibility of maintaining law and order rests squarely with the government. However, given the Abia State Government’s well-established reputation for propaganda, misinformation, and calculated public deception, it is both reasonable and necessary to question the intent behind this claim.
There is a strong possibility that this narrative is a deliberate ploy to divert public attention from the mounting concerns over governance failures, financial opacity, and the apparent mismanagement of public resources under the current administration.
In recent months, citizens of Abia State have become increasingly vocal, demanding transparency and accountability regarding the management of state finances.
Available records shows that over one trillion naira has accrued to the state with little to no corresponding improvement in infrastructure or the welfare of the people. These concerns remain largely unanswered, fueling public distrust and deepening suspicion of systemic mismanagement and possible financial impropriety.
It is, therefore, imperative to state unequivocally that the APC in Abia State is not aware of, nor is it involved in, any planned protest. The APC is a responsible and law-abiding political party that does not engage in actions capable of disrupting public peace or undermining the security and wellbeing of citizens.
Our party, both within Abia State and nationally, is not known for orchestrating protests or encouraging civil unrest. On the contrary, our track record reflects a commitment to lawful engagement, constructive opposition, and responsible political conduct. It is instructive, however, that those attempting to attribute such actions to the opposition belong to a political tradition that has, on multiple occasions, resorted to protests and confrontational tactics, accompanied by violence and disregard for rule of law.
Given this context, it is not far fetched to consider that the present alarm raised by the Abia State Government may itself be part of a staged narrative designed to manufacture a crisis, shift blame to the opposition, and ultimately distract from legitimate public scrutiny over governance issues.
The APC reiterates that it has consistently expressed its concerns regarding governance in Abia State through peaceful, civil, and democratic means primarily via media engagement. We have, for instance, raised objections to the misleading claims by the administration of Governor Alex Otti regarding federally funded infrastructure projects, including:
Port Harcourt Road, Aba
Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road
Onu-Imo to Express Tower Road
Achingali/Udo-Obizi
/Umunwanwa/Ubakala Road being funded by SUKUK
Its therefore unfortunate that these projects, funded by the Tinubu administration have been deceptively presented by the state government as its own achievements, an act we consider dishonest, misleading and unacceptable.
As a party committed to democratic principles, the APC will continue to engage constructively, responsibly, and peacefully in holding the government accountable. We categorically reject any association with protests or activities that may jeopardize public order.
We call on law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant and impartial in the discharge of their duties, ensuring that the peace and security of Abia citizens are not compromised.
Any credible intelligence regarding threats to public order should be acted upon decisively. However, it is equally important to guard against the misuse of state apparatus in advancing politically motivated narratives or suppressing legitimate opposition.
In conclusion, the APC Abia State Chapter urges the government to focus on governance, transparency, and accountability rather than resorting to diversionary tactics and unfounded allegations.
Abians deserve honest leadership and measurable progress not propaganda.
Signed:..
Uche Aguoru
Publicity Secretary
APC Abia State
