The Abia State Government has publicly condemned former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu for allegedly engaging in premature political campaigning in violation of constitutional provisions and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Umuahia, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, expressed the government's strong disapproval of a recent political gathering hosted by Dr. Ikpeazu at his Umuobiakwa residence in Obingwa Local Government Area. According to the statement, the event, which brought together former aides, political associates, and community members, was politically charged and contravened INEC’s regulatory framework on campaign timelines.
“Though Dr. Ikpeazu stopped short of making a formal declaration, his instruction to attendees to ‘deliver their booths and units’ during the upcoming elections unmistakably signals the commencement of political campaigning,” the statement read.
The government further alleged that Ikpeazu made veiled references to election manipulation — a comment it described as “reckless” and “unbecoming of a former chief executive of the state,” noting that similar tactics failed him during the 2023 senatorial race where he came third.
While reaffirming the former governor’s right to freedom of expression, the state government emphasized that such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the ambit of the law.
“It is deeply concerning that Dr. Ikpeazu used the occasion not only to mobilize support unlawfully but also to spread misinformation and launch unwarranted attacks on the current administration. His actions are not only disrespectful to the office he once held but also risk inciting public unrest and undermining the peace currently enjoyed in the state,” the statement added.
Prince Kanu called on citizens to remain calm and law-abiding despite what he described as calculated provocations. He also issued a stern warning that the ban on political campaigns remains in effect.
“Government will not tolerate any attempts to heat up the polity under any guise. Anyone found violating the electoral guidelines will face the full weight of the law,” the statement concluded.
