Abia Deputy Governor Denies Claims of Youth Recruitment Against Tinubu Supporters

The office of Abia State Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, has denied claims that he recruited youths to attack supporters of President Bola Tinubu and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. The Tinubu Support Group made these accusations, but Emetu's office called them false and without any basis.

In a statement from the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Sir Cyril Mba, the office said Emetu did not recruit, mobilise, arm, or organise youths for any such attacks against Tinubu’s supporters or APC members. The statement emphasized that Emetu had no role in these alleged activities.

The statement included this line: "The Deputy Governor has expressly stated that he has no involvement whatsoever in recruiting, mobilising, arming or otherwise organising youths to carry out attacks against supporters of President Tinubu, APC members or any other person or group."

The Deputy Governor’s office challenged the Tinubu Support Group to back up their claims. They asked for details about where and when this alleged recruitment happened, who attended the supposed meetings, and the names of the youths said to be recruited.

They also demanded evidence linking Emetu to these supposed activities, including details about any weapons involved and documents supporting their claims. Any statements attributed to Emetu about President Tinubu or his son, Seyi Tinubu, should also be clarified.

“If the Tinubu Support Group genuinely possesses information establishing these allegations, they are challenged to make such information available to the appropriate security agencies,” the office stated.

The office urged the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to invite the spokesperson of the Tinubu Support Group to present proof of their claims. They want to ensure that any allegations are properly investigated.

The Deputy Governor expressed readiness to fully cooperate with any lawful investigation. He stated he had nothing to fear from such inquiries. He said, “What he rejects is any attempt to substitute unsubstantiated political claims for evidence or to portray legitimate political engagement and mobilisation as preparation for violence.”

Emetu acknowledged that political rivals might feel threatened by his growing influence and the trust Governor Alex Otti has in him. He mentioned, "The appropriate response to political influence is political engagement and persuasion, not the publication of unsubstantiated allegations."

He added that Abia State does not need unfounded accusations. The state requires responsible political engagement, respect for the law, and discussions based on facts.

The statement concluded that Emetu remains focused on his duties as Deputy Governor and on supporting the Alex Otti administration in serving the people of Abia State. Emetu plans to continue engaging with Abians in a peaceful and democratic manner as the 2027 general elections approach.

When asked about his next steps, Emetu simply replied, “This is the best I will be doing for now.”