Rising Insecurity: Gov Alex Otti Denies Initial Statement on Non-Confrontation with Sit-At-Home Enforcers Following Soldier Killings in Aba | #NwokeukwuMascot

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...Abia State Governor Denies Initial Statement on Sit-At-Home Order, Vows to Maintain Public Safety | #NwokeukwuMascot

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 Aba, Abia State  – In a dramatic turn of events, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has refuted an earlier statement attributed to his administration regarding the May 30 sit-at-home order issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The initial statement suggested the government would not confront those promoting the sit-at-home directive in remembrance of those who died during the Nigerian civil war.

The original statement, released by Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, emphasized the government's intention to respect the rights of individuals mourning their dead and to manage the situation without unnecessary confrontation. Ekeoma assured the public that the government was coordinating with schools to ensure WAEC exams proceeded without disruption and emphasized the importance of a peaceful observance of the remembrance day.

“The government is in touch with all the affected schools to ensure that WAEC exams are not disrupted. We are working on managing the situation without unnecessary confrontation with those advocating for the sit-at-home to honor their deceased loved ones. They have every right to mourn, considering the history of the war. This is not a matter of politicizing.

“The war was a tragic period, and remembering the genocidal events is an emotional experience. We do not wish to confront those observing this moment of remembrance. Instead, we are handling the situation with wisdom and diplomacy, engaging with all involved parties.

“While we are taking certain measures that we prefer to keep private, our main goal is to ensure students can take their exams peacefully. Rest assured, we are implementing measures to maintain peace in Abia State.” Ekeoma stated.

However, a subsequent statement signed by Prince Okey Kanu, Abia State Commissioner for Information & Culture, categorically denied these claims. Governor Otti clarified that he did not make the statement attributed to him and ordered a full investigation into the miscommunication.

Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration's stance on the freedom of movement and the right of citizens to pursue their livelihoods in a secure environment. He highlighted his government's zero-tolerance policy for criminality and civil disturbances, emphasizing strategic investments to ensure community safety. 

“The attention of the Abia State Government has been drawn to a widely circulating statement purportedly made by His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, the Governor of Abia State on the order allegedly issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) for a Sit-At-Home protest on May 30th, 2024. In the statement, His Excellency was said to have spoken through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, and alleged to have implied support for the sit-at-home order.

“The Abia State Government hereby categorically and unequivocally states that His Excellency did not make the statement attributed to him, nor does it reflect his personal views or those of the Abia State Government under his leadership. Even though the officer in question has said he was quoted out of context, the Governor has ordered a full investigation into the egregious comment which is at variance with Government’s posture towards IPOB and other organisations or persons seeking to obstruct the rights of the citizens to freedom of movement.The public is hereby advised to totally disregard the comments in the purported statement.

“Prior to, and since taking office as Governor, His Excellency has consistently, publicly and uncompromisingly maintained that no individual or organization has the right to deny citizens of their sacrosanct right to freedom of movement, freedom to earn a livelihood and freedom to pursue their endeavours in an atmosphere of peace, security and with all the assurances of citizenship.

“His Excellency’s policy of zero-tolerance for criminality and civil disturbances under any guise whatsoever has been backed by very strategic investments to keep our communities and neighbourhoods safe and secure, resulting in Abia State being ranked amongst the safest in the country. Under this administration, incessant kidnapping for huge ransoms, robbery and in some cases, murder have been reduced drastically.

“It is unfortunate, regrettable and deeply concerning that a few criminals and conflict merchants have orchestrated the recent callous murder of members of our Armed Forces in Obikabia, Obingwa LGA. Like we had indicated in our response to the tragic attack, we are working with the security agencies and well-meaning citizens to unmask these criminals and we shall not rest until they are arrested and made to face the full force of the law.

“Having earlier placed a N25 million bounty for information leading to the apprehension of the perpetrators of the killings, the following secure number – 07071902444 – has been activated in the Office of the Governor for the members of the public to freely call or text with useful information.” Kanu stated.

Governor Otti assured the citizens of Abia State of his administration's commitment to maintaining peace and security, underlining that no individual or group would be allowed to disrupt the state's tranquility.