APC Alleges ‘Fake Protest Plot’ in Abia, Questions ₦1tn Spending
“In a dramatic escalation of political tensions in Abia State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly denied allegations linking it to a planned protest, warning that the claims may be part of a calculated attempt to distract citizens from growing concerns over alleged financial mismanagement and lack of transparency. With over ₦1 trillion reportedly accrued to the state and citizens demanding answers, the unfolding controversy is raising serious questions about accountability, governance, and political trust.”
“The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State has denied involvement in any planned protest, describing allegations by the state government as a possible diversion from concerns over transparency, governance failures, and the reported accrual of over ₦1 trillion without visible development.”
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State has reacted to a recent statement by the state government alleging that the opposition is plotting a protest under the tag, “Tinubu Dey Work, Otti Dey Chop.”
In a strongly worded response, the party described the allegation as suspicious and potentially misleading, noting that while maintaining law and order is the responsibility of the government, the claim must be critically examined given what it called the administration’s “history of propaganda, misinformation, and calculated public deception.”
The APC, in a statement signed by the publicity secretary, Uche Aguoru and made available to the media, suggested that the allegation could be a deliberate attempt to divert public attention from mounting concerns over governance issues, including financial opacity and alleged mismanagement of public funds.
According to the party, citizens of Abia State have, in recent months, become increasingly vocal in demanding transparency and accountability in the management of state resources. It noted that available records indicate that over ₦1 trillion has accrued to the state, with “little to no commensurate improvement in infrastructure or citizens’ welfare.”
“These concerns remain largely unanswered,” the statement noted, adding that the situation has fueled public distrust and heightened suspicions of systemic mismanagement and possible financial impropriety.
The APC categorically denied any involvement in the alleged protest, stating:
“The APC in Abia State is not aware of, nor involved in, any planned protest. We are a responsible and law-abiding political party that does not engage in actions capable of disrupting public peace.”
The party further emphasized that its track record reflects a commitment to lawful engagement and constructive opposition, distancing itself from any form of civil unrest.
It also argued that those attempting to link the opposition to protests belong to “a political tradition that has, on multiple occasions, resorted to confrontational tactics, sometimes accompanied by violence and disregard for the rule of law.”
Given the circumstances, the APC warned that the protest narrative could itself be staged to manufacture a crisis, shift blame to the opposition, and deflect attention from legitimate governance concerns.
The party maintained that it has consistently raised issues through peaceful and democratic channels, particularly via media engagements. It cited objections to what it described as misleading claims by the administration of Governor Alex Otti regarding federally funded projects.
Among the projects listed are:
Port Harcourt Road, Aba
Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road
Onu-Imo to Express Tower Road
Achingali/Udo-Obizi/Umunwanwa/Ubakala Road (funded by SUKUK).
The APC alleged that these projects, funded by the federal government under President Bola Tinubu, have been “deceptively presented” by the state government as its own achievements.
Describing the act as “dishonest, misleading, and unacceptable,” the party reaffirmed its commitment to holding the government accountable through lawful means.
“We categorically reject any association with protests or activities that may jeopardize public order,” the statement added.
The party also called on law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant and impartial, urging them to act on credible threats to public peace while avoiding the misuse of state apparatus for political purposes.
In conclusion, the APC urged the Abia State Government to focus on governance, transparency, and accountability rather than “resorting to diversionary tactics and unfounded allegations.”
“Abians deserve honest leadership and measurable progress—not propaganda,” the statement concluded.
