The Government of Abia Blames Opposition Politicians for the State's Current Crime Wave.

The Abia State Government has announced that it has identified certain disloyal politicians, in collaboration with external entities, as the orchestrators of the recent surge in violence and serious crimes that have resulted in the deaths of both security personnel and civilians since May 2024. The government asserts that credible information from concerned citizens and trustworthy intelligence indicates that these criminal activities are intended to divert the government's attention from its developmental agenda and to instigate disorder. Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Special Adviser on Media to Governor Alex Otti, made this statement on Monday through a press release. The statement emphasized that the state government will not succumb to intimidation or blackmail from any individual or group, and it cautioned that it will not permit violence to disrupt the peace of the state's law-abiding citizens. “Those responsible for the assaults on security forces and innocent civilians, including the abduction of law-abiding individuals aimed at fostering chaos and instilling fear among the people of Abia and its visitors, should recognize that the government is committed to utilizing its full resources and institutional power to eliminate them. “The administration, under Governor Alex Otti, is fully prepared to ensure the safety of all individuals residing in any region of Abia State.” The state government has also announced the initiation of a new counteroffensive aimed at dismantling any terror networks established or being established by criminals within Abia. It has advised residents to refrain from sheltering unknown individuals to avoid becoming victims. Additionally, the government has called upon the people of Abia to collaborate with law enforcement agencies in eradicating criminal elements and has urged traditional leaders to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. Last week, three military officers lost their lives in Ekenobizi, Umuahia, due to an assault by unidentified individuals. Additionally, a politician from Port Harcourt was abducted in the state capital, and a tricycle was forcibly taken at gunpoint. On Monday, reports emerged regarding an attack on the convoy of House of Representatives member Ginger Onwusibe, resulting in the death of a police officer, alongside other recent incidents of criminal activity.