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NO AMOUNT OF INTIMIDATION, THREATS OR OPPRESSION CAN STOP US FROM HOLDING THE GOVERNMENT TO ACCOUNT.
The attention of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abia State, has been drawn to the increasing use of threats of litigation and judicial intimidation by the Alex Otti administration as a tool to silence critics, suppress dissenting voices, and prevent citizens from exposing what we consider the misgovernance, waste, fraud, and brazen corruption currently taking place in Abia State.
The APC is aware of several attempts by the state government and its agents to intimidate, harass, oppress, and, in some instances, use their influence within the judicial system to persecute Abians who dare to question government actions or demand transparency, accountability, and improved governance.
The recent attempt by the Alex Otti administration to threaten me, in my capacity as the Publicity Secretary of the APC in Abia State, with legal action for carrying out my legitimate responsibility of scrutinizing and criticizing government actions is both unacceptable and laughably futile. It is a failed mission from the onset.
As at the last count, over ten opposition members have been dragged before various courts in Abuja, Lagos, and Abia simply for demanding accountability, transparency, and responsible governance from the Alex Otti administration.
It is both unfortunate and ironic that Governor Alex Otti, who today appears intolerant of criticism, built much of his political profile as an opposition figure by openly criticizing successive governments at both the state and national levels. Throughout those years, he exercised his constitutional right to challenge government policies, question public spending, and hold those in power accountable without being subjected to the kind of harassment, intimidation, and legal persecution that critics of his administration now face.
The APC has consistently conducted itself as a responsible and constructive opposition party in the state. Our interventions have remained focused on governance, accountability, transparency, prudent management of public resources, and the protection of citizens' rights. We have exercised our constitutional right to question government policies and decisions where necessary, and we will continue to do so without fear or apology.
Let it be clearly stated that neither the APC nor its members can be intimidated into silence. We will continue to demand responsible, accountable, and transparent governance in Abia State. Democracy thrives on criticism, scrutiny, and accountability. Those entrusted with public office must be prepared to answer questions from the people they govern.
It is instructive that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has faced relentless criticism from opposition politicians, political commentators, media personalities, and even associates and supporters of Governor Alex Otti. Yet, despite wielding far greater constitutional powers as President, he has not resorted to intimidation, harassment, or the abuse of state institutions to silence his critics.
We therefore call on the Alex Otti administration to immediately cease the weaponization of the courts and other state institutions against political opponents, critics, and ordinary citizens. The growing pattern of frivolous lawsuits, harassment, and intimidation aimed at silencing dissent poses a serious threat to democratic freedoms in our state.
We also call on the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Chief Justice of Nigeria to closely monitor developments within the Abia State judicial system and ensure that judicial officers do not become willing tools in the hands of politicians seeking to suppress opposition voices. The judiciary must remain independent, impartial, and above political manipulation.
Governor Alex Otti must understand that he is a public servant elected by the people, not an emperor above criticism. No governor, regardless of his office, is beyond scrutiny in a democratic society.
Let me state once again, without equivocation, that the APC is steadily rebuilding, strengthening its structures, and positioning itself to take over the governance of Abia State in 2027. No amount of threats, intimidation, oppression, harassment, or abuse of state institutions can stop that democratic aspiration.
The people of Abia State deserve better, and no campaign of fear will silence those who are determined to speak truth to power.
Signed:
Uche Aguoru
Publicity Secretary
APC Abia State See less
