From TCNEWS
The Abia State Government and the Abia State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has issued press releases following the rising insecurity in the state.
Read the releases below;
GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
PROMOTERS OF VIOLENCE AND INSECURITY IN ABIA WILL PAY A HEAVY PRICE
Following series of tip-off from patriotic citizens and reliable intelligence, it has been firmly established that some unpatriotic politicians, in connivance with some external parties are behind the current wave of violence and crime in the state since the end of May this year. The sole agenda is to cause disaffection and distract the government from its focus on the development of the state. This strategy kicked in as they realised that their initial efforts at churning out lies and fabrications against the government in pretentious posturing as “opposition” has failed to gain currency amongst Abia people who have thoroughly ignored them and their antics, since they know the truth.
While the Abia State government is one that is known and acknowledged locally, nationally and internationally as a peace-loving government, devoid of involvement in politics of violence, division and destruction, it must be noted that we will not yield to blackmail or intimidation. It needs to be understood that the government will not sit idly by and watch any person or group of persons unleash violence on innocent and peace-loving citizens of the state.
Having sworn to an oath to protect the lives and property of Abians, including every inch of Abia territory, the government wishes to declare as follows:
1. That those behind the attacks on security agents and innocent civilians, including kidnapping of law abiding citizens with a view to creating anarchy and instill fear in the minds of Abians and visitors, after their failure to use lies and propaganda to incite Abians should understand that the government will bring its full capacity and institutional forces to bear in order to smoke them out.
2. That the state government led by Governor Alex Otti, is prepared and equal to the task of safeguarding the lives and property of people living in any part of Abia State and will execute this noble obligation to the fullest without let or hinderance.
3. That a new Counter Offensive has just been launched by the government to decimate every structure of terror erected or being erected in any Abia territory by criminals, hence citizens are enjoined not to harbour any person or persons they do not know, to avoid falling victims.
4. All innocent and peace-loving Abia residents are enjoined to go about their legitimate businesses without fear or panic, as government is determined to ensure their protection at all times.
5. Kidnapping, armed robbery, ritual killings and other criminal activities and heinous crimes are allien to the culture of our people, therefore, Abians should cooperate with the government and security agencies to get rid of all criminal elements who are desirous of polluting our land with their sacrilegious activities.
6. Government wishes to strongly warn that anyone that attempts to play politics with the lives and property of innocent Abians should be ready to face the consequences, as government will no longer tolerate such acts, no matter who is behind them.
7. Community leaders and traditional leaders are enjoined to be vigilant and report suspicious activities to the law enforcement agencies for appropriate actions
8. Finally, government wishes to call on parents and guardians to monitor the activities of their children and loved ones, in order to ensure they do not indulge in any form of criminal activities, as government will not yield to any form of emotional blackmail or appeal in any matter of established criminality.
Ferdinand Ekeoma
Special Adviser to the Governor
(Media and Publicity)
November 18, 2024.
*RE: RESPONSE TO GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT ON INSECURITY IN ABIA STATE:*
The Abia State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (AbiaPDP) has taken note of the recent announcement by the Abia State Government regarding the rise of violence and insecurity in our beloved state. While we understand the gravity of the situation, we urge the government to refrain from politicizing a matter as serious as security.
It is crucial that the Otti administration does not sow seeds of discord among the good people of Abia. Instead, we call on the government to work collaboratively with security agencies and provide them with any concrete evidence that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the heinous killings of innocent citizens. Playing politics with the lives of Abians is not only counterproductive but also dangerous.
We want to remind the current administration that combating insecurity demands comprehensive strategies beyond mere declarations. The former governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, understood the vital link between poverty and insecurity. He empowered over 7,000 Abians monthly, recognizing that economic stability is a proactive approach to mitigating violence and crime. We appeal to Governor Alex Otti to prioritize poverty reduction initiatives and engage all stakeholders, including community leaders and traditional rulers, in addressing these challenges head-on.
The opposition’s constitutional responsibility is to provide constructive criticism and present alternative perspectives without fear of intimidation. It is not only our right but our duty to hold the government accountable. We insist that the Otti administration must take the necessary steps to address the worsening security situation with sincerity and integrity, rather than resorting to slanderous campaigns against perceived opponents.
In conclusion, we urge the government to focus on working with security agencies to restore peace in our communities, ensuring that all Abians can go about their daily lives free from fear. True leadership lies in finding solutions, not creating divisions.
Together, let us build a safer, unified, and prosperous Abia.
*Eric Ikwuagwu*
*State Publicity Secretary*
*ABIA PDP.*