Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has issued a stern warning to Labour Party (LP) supporters against interfering with the campaign activities of rival political parties or taking the law into their hands ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The governor delivered the charge on Sunday, November 1, 2026, during the official flag-off of the Labour Party’s 2027 election campaign and manifesto launch held in Umuahia, the Abia State capital. Addressing party stakeholders, candidates, and thousands of loyalists gathered for the campaign launch, Otti emphasized that membership in the ruling party does not grant anyone immunity from the law.
He instructed security agencies across Abia State to arrest and prosecute any individual found obstructing opposition rallies or harassing political opponents, regardless of whether they belong to the Labour Party.
”You do not have my mandate to attack people or to stop people from campaigning,” Otti stated. “Security agencies have been mandated to arrest and deal decisively with anyone who attempts to obstruct any political group from holding their legitimate activities, even if they are Labour Party members. I hope I am heard clearly.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to a level playing field, the governor instructed that opposition political groups be granted equal access to state-owned public facilities, including stadia, provided they follow standard administrative guidelines, obtain necessary approvals, and pay the required fees.
He noted that his administration would not tolerate acts of political intimidation or violence carried out under the guise of ruling party dominance.
Beyond warning his loyalists against political brigandage, Otti challenged rival parties to focus their campaigns on issue-based debates. He urged political contenders to present alternative policy frameworks and performance records rather than resorting to mudslinging, personal attacks, or misinformation.
Echoing the governor’s directive, Labour Party chieftains, including state spokesperson Chief Kalu Onwuneme, emphasized that while the governor maintains a democratic and peaceful disposition, political actors should not mistake his commitment to order for weakness.
Onwuneme called on security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain impartial and preserve a peaceful atmosphere for voters across the state.
The Umuahia campaign flag-off event concluded on Sunday afternoon following the governor’s address, as party leaders outlined their “Rescue to Consolidation” manifesto, officially launching the Labour Party’s election drive across the state’s 17 local government areas.
