The Abia State government has raised alarm over what it described as “unlawful political mobilization” by former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, accusing him of inciting political tension in the state through a recent gathering at his private residence in Umuobiakwa, Obingwa Local Government Area.
In an official statement released Tuesday and signed by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, the government alleged that Dr. Ikpeazu’s meeting with former aides, political allies, and local residents constituted an early political campaign in violation of both the Nigerian Constitution and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines.
“Though Dr. Ikpeazu did not officially declare any ambition, his direct instruction to his audience to ‘deliver their booths and units’ during upcoming elections unmistakably signals the start of a political campaign,” the statement read. “This is a breach of INEC’s established rules.”
Kanu condemned the former governor’s rhetoric at the event, characterizing it as “a vicious tirade of misinformation and attacks against the current administration.” He warned that such conduct, especially coming from a former governor, could inflame political tensions and disrupt the fragile peace currently prevailing in the state.
“It is preposterous that Dr. Ikpeazu would exploit this illegal platform not only to mobilize politically but also to hurl baseless criticisms at the government,” Kanu said. “Such reckless commentary not only disrespects the office he once held but also risks inciting unrest.”
The state government reiterated that the ban on political campaigns remains in force and cautioned all political actors to refrain from activities that may contravene electoral regulations or disrupt public order.
“We want to issue a final warning that the ban on campaigns has not been lifted,” the statement concluded. “Anyone campaigning now is breaking the law and trying to heat up the polity. The government will not sit idly by and allow that to happen.”
As of press time, Dr. Ikpeazu has not responded to the allegations.
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