Otti Opens Abia For 2027 Campaigns, Warns Politicians Against Violence

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has directed security agencies in the state to provide a level playing field for all political parties seeking to conduct lawful campaigns and political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The directive was disclosed by the Abia State Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, following the state’s monthly Security Council meeting chaired by Governor Otti.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Afolabi said the governor instructed security agencies to grant express approval to political parties that apply to hold campaign activities, stressing that all parties should be given equal opportunity to operate within the law.

The police commissioner said the directive had made the security agencies’ responsibilities easier, adding that they were prepared to work with the state government to ensure peaceful campaigns and elections in 2027.

Afolabi said security agencies were committed to maintaining public order throughout the electioneering period and preventing activities that could undermine peace in the state.

Also speaking, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Security, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (rtd.), said political parties would be allowed to use stadiums and other public facilities for their campaigns, provided they paid the approved fees and complied with the relevant requirements.

Ubah said the governor’s directive was intended to ensure that political parties could conduct their campaigns without unnecessary hindrance.

He, however, warned that individuals or groups who attempted to disrupt public peace or engage in acts capable of causing violence would face the consequences of the law.

The security adviser maintained that the state would not tolerate actions capable of causing disorder or threatening the safety of residents during the political season.

The security officials also assured that the agencies were prepared to provide security for political activities and the 2027 elections, with the aim of ensuring that campaigns are conducted peacefully and within the provisions of the law.