Abia State Gov. Alex Otti warned Labour Party supporters against disrupting rivals’ campaigns, saying security agencies were directed to arrest anyone obstructing lawful political activity ahead of the 2027 vote.
Otti spoke at the party’s campaign launch at Umuahia Township Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 1, Punch and Vanguard reported. He said, “You do not have my mandate to attack people.” Otti said Labour Party membership would not shield anyone who interfered with another group’s lawful political activities from arrest.
He said opposition parties could hold campaign events at public venues, including the stadium, once authorities approved their use and the parties paid applicable fees, the outlets reported. A Sept. 25 statement from Otti’s office said parties seeking approval to campaign should receive it, while use of public facilities required payment of the approved fees.
At the launch, Otti also urged parties to focus on issues and their manifestos instead of personal attacks, according to the reports. In an earlier appeal ahead of the 2027 election, he urged voters to reject cash and food gifts.
Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) lists Feb. 6, 2027, for Abia’s governorship and state assembly election.
