Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti has accused opposition parties of orchestrating the rising insecurity in major cities like Umuahia and Aba, describing the situation as a deliberate attempt to destabilize his administration. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Governor Otti alleged that unpatriotic politicians, in collaboration with external actors, are behind the wave of violence and crime in the state. The statement suggested that their aim is to create unrest and divert attention from the government’s developmental agenda.

The governor urged residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities to combat the security challenges. According to the statement, intelligence gathered from citizens points to a calculated plan to disrupt peace in the state, following the failure of propaganda campaigns by the opposition to gain public traction.

Governor Otti emphasized that while his government is committed to peace, it will not tolerate blackmail, intimidation, or threats to public safety. He declared that a “new counter-offensive” has been launched to dismantle criminal networks and protect citizens. He warned perpetrators of violence, including those behind attacks on security personnel, kidnappings, and other criminal activities, that the government would deploy all its resources to ensure justice.

The statement urged community and traditional leaders to remain vigilant, advising residents against harboring unfamiliar individuals to avoid unintended involvement in criminal activities. Parents and guardians were also encouraged to monitor their wards’ behavior to prevent engagement in unlawful acts.

Governor Otti reassured the public of his administration’s resolve to safeguard lives and property, emphasizing that anyone seeking to politicize insecurity would face severe consequences. He called for cooperation from all Abia residents to help rid the state of criminal elements, asserting that such crimes are foreign to the state’s culture and values.