The Abia State Government has raised the alarm over an alleged plot by some political actors to sponsor a violent protest in the state, warning that it will deploy full force to protect lives and property.
In a special announcement on Friday, the government said intelligence available to it confirmed plans by certain opposition elements to mobilise miscreants from Aba and neighbouring states for a protest tagged “Tinubu Dey Work, Otti Dey Chop.”
The government described the slogan as a false narrative that opposition figures have been pushing for several months, now escalated into a plan for a violent demonstration.
According to the statement signed by Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, the protest is intended to drive the false claim that the Federal Government has paid for the construction of federal roads and other projects executed by the Abia State Government.
“The State government recently cleared the air on this matter to the effect that the FG had stopped refunds,” the statement noted.
However, the government alleged that the real intention of the plotters is to provoke a confrontation between their hirelings and the State Task Force in Aba, leading to possible killings and reprisal attacks.
“The enemies of Abia people intend that this protest would lead to a conflict… thus creating an atmosphere of violence and breakdown of law and order, with a view to making the state ungovernable ahead of the 2027 elections,” the government said.
The statement warned that those involved in the plot would “pay a heavy price beyond their imagination,” adding that while the government has no issue with legitimate dissent as part of democracy, it would “come very hard on any person or group of persons who attempts to put the lives of Abia people in harm’s way in the name of political opposition.”
The government also called on parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against involvement in any form of politically sponsored protest, saying such participation “would come with a regret.”
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, the Abia State Government said it would continue to ensure the state remains peaceful and the political space open for all to pursue their interests without threats or intimidation.
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