On Friday in Abia State, the state government and the All Progressives Congress exchanged claims over an alleged plan by opposition figures to stage a violent protest, as tensions rise ahead of the 2027 elections.
The government, speaking through the Special Adviser to Governor Alex Otti on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, said it had intelligence reports that some political actors were arranging to bring in individuals from nearby states to carry out a protest.
According to the state, the protest was designed to trigger clashes with security operatives and disrupt peace in the state.
The administration said the alleged plan was aimed at creating unrest and making the state unstable as political activities ahead of the next general elections begin to gather pace.
It also warned that those involved would face consequences if any attempt is made to disturb public order.
In response, the Abia chapter of the APC, through its Publicity Secretary, Uche Aguoru, denied any involvement in such plans. The party said it had no knowledge of any protest and insisted that it does not support actions that could threaten security or public safety.
The APC further suggested that the alarm raised by the state government could be an attempt to shift attention from governance issues and create a narrative against the opposition. It maintained that it remains committed to lawful political engagement.
The exchange reflects growing political tension in the state, with both sides holding different positions on the alleged protest and its purpose, as preparations for the 2027 elections continue to build across the country.