“Opposition Politicians, Not IPOB, Behind Violent Attacks in Abia” – State Government

The Abia State Government has declared that opposition politicians, not the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), are responsible for the recent wave of violent attacks on security personnel in the state. The administration of Governor Alex Otti alleges that these politicians, in collaboration with external forces, are orchestrating the violence to destabilize the government.

This accusation follows last Wednesday’s killing of two soldiers at a checkpoint in Ekenobizi, Umuopara, near the border with Imo State. The incident adds to a series of attacks since May, which have claimed the lives of eight troops and several police officers.

In a statement issued by Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, the government emphasized that the attacks are part of a strategy by unpatriotic politicians to cause unrest after their earlier attempts at propaganda failed to gain support among Abians.

Ekeoma highlighted that intelligence reports and citizen tips firmly link opposition elements to the growing violence. He announced the launch of a “new Counter Offensive” to dismantle criminal structures in the state and urged residents not to harbor unknown individuals.

“It has been firmly established that some unpatriotic politicians, in connivance with external parties, are behind the current wave of violence and crime in the state since the end of May this year. The sole agenda is to cause disaffection and distract the government from its focus on the development of the state,” Ekeoma stated.

The government also stressed that its peaceful disposition should not be mistaken for weakness. Ekeoma warned that those behind the attacks, including the kidnapping of innocent civilians, would face severe consequences if they do not desist. He assured residents of the administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

Governor Otti’s administration, he reiterated, is fully prepared to confront and eliminate threats posed by criminal elements. Residents were encouraged to go about their daily activities without fear, as the government remains determined to ensure their safety.