Abia Security Crisis: Otti Blames Opposition For Deadly Attacks

Abia Security Crisis Deepens as Governor Otti Blames Opposition not IPOB’ for Military Attacks.

iexclusivenews – ABIA state government has accused “unpatriotic opposition politicians not IPOB, in connivance with external forces” in the ongoing Abia security crisis that has plagued the state. This accusation follows the killing of two soldiers at a checkpoint in Ekenobizi, Umuopara, an Abia community in Umuahia South Local Government Area, near the border with Imo State.

The Abia State Government’s stance on the recent attacks was detailed in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma. The statement, made available to the media in Umuahia, announced the launch of “a new Counter Offensive” aimed at dismantling any structures of terror erected by criminals in Abia territory. Ekeoma emphasized that the government is committed to a total war against perpetrators of violence in the state.

Allegations of External Influence and Recent Attacks

This online news media gathered that Ekeoma asserted that the government has “firmly established” through reliable intelligence and tip-offs from patriotic citizens that unpatriotic politicians, in collaboration with external parties, are behind the current wave of violence and crime in Abia security crisis. He claimed that the sole agenda of these politicians is to cause disaffection and distract the government from its focus on developing the state.

However, the latest attack, which resulted in the deaths of two soldiers, is part of a series of violent incidents targeting security personnel in Abia State. Since the first attack on May 19, 2024, followed by another on May 30 that claimed five soldiers, a total of eight troops have been killed by hoodlums. Police personnel have also been victims of these bloody attacks.

Opposition’s Strategy and Government’s Response

Ekeoma noted that the attacks represent a new strategy adopted by the opposition to disrupt governance after their initial efforts to spread lies and fabrications against the government failed to resonate with Abians. He accused opposition politicians of engaging in intense and vicious propaganda against the Alex Otti administration under the guise of playing opposition politics.

The government spokesman warned those behind the attacks on security agents and innocent civilians, including the kidnapping of law-abiding citizens, to retrace their steps or face dire consequences. Ekeoma stated that the Abia government would use its full capacity and institutional forces to eliminate those involved in creating anarchy and instilling fear in the minds of Abians and visitors.

Ekeoma assured Abians that the state government, led by Governor Alex Otti, is prepared and capable of safeguarding the lives and property of people living in any part of Abia State. He urged all innocent and peace-loving residents to go about their legitimate businesses without fear or panic, as the government is determined to ensure their protection at all times. He reiterated that criminal elements would be routed out.

What You Should Know

The Abia State Government’s accusation against opposition politicians highlights the complex dynamics of violence and political rivalry in the state. As the government launches a counter-offensive to address the security challenges, the focus remains on protecting the lives and property of residents while ensuring that those responsible for the attacks are brought to justice. The situation underscores the need for unity and vigilance in the face of attempts to destabilize the state.