As Abia State gears up for another tense political season, the Abia Renaissance Group (ARG) has sent a strong warning to Governor Alex Otti: avoid divisive comments and actions that could endanger the peace the state is known for.
In a statement signed by Chairman Kelechi Uwakwe and Secretary Emma Nwangwu, the group expressed deep worry over what it called “inflammatory language” in the political space, urging all leaders to prioritize unity over personal interests.
“Abia has enjoyed peace and political tolerance for years,” the group noted. “It is not the time to gamble with our fragile stability.”
The group didn’t stop at calling out politicians; it also turned to security agencies, asking them to ensure no one, including the Governor; is seen to be above the law.
They urged the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and even the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to act swiftly on any signs of intimidation or political bullying.
“Abia belongs to everyone, not one man or party,” the group stressed.
Abia, since returning to democratic rule in 1999, has largely stayed out of the kind of violent politics seen in some neighbouring states. From the days of Orji Uzor Kalu to the PDP era of T.A. Orji and Okezie Ikpeazu, there has always been a certain balance of power, however tense.
Governor Otti, who came into power on the Labour Party ticket after a surprise upset in 2023, is the first non-PDP governor in decades – and that has clearly changed the political dynamics in the state.
With this new era has come heightened political rivalry, which the ARG believes could spiral if not checked.
“We urge all leaders to show restraint. This is not the time for war rhetoric,” the group added.
The ARG concluded by reaffirming its commitment to peace, justice, and democracy – and said it would continue to speak out whenever the political climate threatens to boil over.
