The Abia Renaissance Group (ARG) has called on the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police to investigate Governor Alex Otti of Abia State over a controversial statement he made about the 2027 governorship election.
In a statement released on Friday and signed by its chairman, Kelechi Uwakwe, and secretary, Emma Nwangwu, the group accused Otti of making remarks that could incite violence and endanger peace in the state.
Otti, during his monthly address to Abians on Thursday, had warned politicians plotting to rig the next governorship election to rethink their plans or “write their wills.”
“I have heard that some people around him say, ‘Oh, they must take over this state; they must write results,’” Otti had said.
“But the only advice I have for them is that if they truly want to write results, they should write something else before that time. You know what it is? Their will.”
The ARG described the governor’s statement as “reckless and dangerous,” alleging that it amounted to a veiled death threat against political opponents.
“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 reads.
“This confirms long-standing fears that the governor has been tacitly encouraging his supporters to attack or intimidate citizens who hold opposing political views.
“Abia has enjoyed a history of peace and political tolerance. Sadly, the governor’s recent conduct has introduced fear and tension.”
The group said it had submitted a formal petition to the DSS, the Nigeria Police, and the Office of the National Security Adviser, urging them to act swiftly.
“We are confident that the relevant authorities—the Nigeria Police, the DSS, and the Office of the National Security Adviser—will take all necessary steps to maintain law and order, prevent escalation of tension, and guarantee equal protection for every Abian.
“We call on all security agencies to rise to the occasion and ensure that no one, including Governor Otti, is above the law. Abia belongs to all, not to a single man or party.”
The statement comes amid growing political tension in Abia as parties begin early manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 polls.
