2027: Anyone attacking opposition parties will be arrested, dealt with decisively - Gov Otti

Abia State Governor Dr Alex Otti has warned against political intimidation and attacks on opposition parties, directing security agencies to arrest and deal decisively with anyone attempting to disrupt lawful political activities in the state.

Otti said no individual or group had his permission to attack opposition parties or prevent their members from carrying out political activities, regardless of their political affiliation.

The governor's position comes amid growing concerns over alleged political intimidation, violence and disruptions targeting opposition supporters in different parts of the country ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a stern warning, Otti declared while addressing his supporters on Monday, “You have no mandate from me to attack opposition parties who are doing their respective political activities.

"Security agencies should arrest and deal decisively with anyone attempting to cause such disruptions, including Labour Party members.”

The governor's directive has drawn attention to the importance of protecting political freedom and ensuring that all registered political parties can organise rallies, meetings and other lawful activities without intimidation.

Several states have recently witnessed reported incidents of political violence and disruption involving opposition parties.

Among the states are Delta, Benue, Kaduna, Enugu, Edo, Rivers, Cross River, Kogi, Osun, Kebbi and Ekiti.

In Delta State, members of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, NDC, were reportedly attacked by suspected hoodlums during a One Million Man March in Asaba on November 7, 2026, leaving several participants injured and campaign vehicles damaged.

In Benue State, the convoy of NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi was blocked by youths in Makurdi during a visit to Yelwata in September, while the ADC also reported an attack on its supporters during a solidarity walk in Kaduna State.

Enugu State has equally witnessed reported attacks on opposition political gatherings, including an incident involving an NDC ward meeting and a separate disruption of a PDP rally.

Other states identified in the ADC's account of alleged attacks and intimidation between July 2025 and September 2026 include Kebbi, Ekiti, Cross River, Rivers, Edo, Osun and Kogi.

Otti's warning reinforces the need for political tolerance, respect for democratic principles and equal protection for supporters of all political parties.

The governor's position is that political differences should not be used as an excuse to intimidate opponents, disrupt peaceful gatherings, or deny citizens their constitutional right to associate with political parties of their choice.