Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has directed security agencies in the state to ensure a level playing field for all political parties to lawfully conduct their activities and campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The governor gave the directive during the monthly State Security Council meeting held at his office.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (rtd), said security agencies were prepared to provide a conducive environment for political campaigns and the 2027 elections.
Afolabi said Governor Otti had specifically directed security agencies to give all political parties equal opportunity to conduct their campaigns, provided they meet the necessary legal requirements.
According to the Commissioner, the governor instructed that political parties seeking approval to hold campaigns should be granted the necessary permission without unnecessary hindrance.
“He told us explicitly and in clear terms that all he wants is for us to create a level playing field for all,” Afolabi said.
He added that the security agencies were prepared to ensure peaceful campaigns and elections in the state.
Also speaking, Ubah said political parties would be allowed to conduct their campaigns without obstruction, provided they complied with approved requirements for the use of public facilities.
He said parties would be free to use stadiums and other public facilities after paying the applicable fees and meeting the stipulated requirements.
Ubah, however, warned that security agencies would take action against individuals or groups whose activities threatened public peace or violated the law.
“The law has a long arm. The long arm of the law will catch up with anyone who wants to perpetrate trouble or cause mayhem,” he said.
The security officials reaffirmed the readiness of the security agencies to maintain peace and public order throughout the political activities leading to the 2027 elections.
By Enitan Mudashiru | MUK TV News
