No one above the law — Group wants Gov Otti investigated for ‘death threat’ remark

The Abia Renaissance Group (ARG) has urged Nigeria’s security agencies to investigate Governor Alex Otti of Abia State over remarks he made regarding the 2027 governorship election, warning that his words could incite unrest.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Kelechi Uwakwe, and secretary, Emma Nwangwu, the group said it had submitted a petition to law enforcement agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force. The petition follows comments by Otti suggesting that those planning to manipulate election results in 2027 should “write their wills.”

“I have heard that some people say they must take over this state, they must write results,” Otti reportedly said on Thursday. “But the only advice I have for them is that if they truly want to write results, they should write something else before that time — their will.”

ARG described the statement as a “veiled death threat” capable of heightening political tension and fear across the state. The group accused the governor of undermining his duty to protect lives and property by making remarks that could embolden supporters to intimidate political opponents.

“It is worrisome that a sitting governor, whose duty is to protect lives and property, is issuing veiled death threats against Abians exercising their democratic rights,” the statement read. “This confirms long-standing fears that the governor may be encouraging his supporters to attack or intimidate those with opposing views.”

The group appealed to the DSS, the police, and the Office of the National Security Adviser to act swiftly to prevent escalation and ensure equal protection for all residents.

“We call on all security agencies to rise to the occasion and ensure that no one, including Governor Otti, is above the law. Abia belongs to everyone, not to a single man or party,” ARG said.