Politics

Security Forces Disrupt PDP Meeting in Abia Over Permit Dispute

A political gathering organized by members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State was abruptly disrupted on Friday when operatives from the state's combined security outfit, Operation Crush, arrived at the scene.

The sudden appearance of security personnel at the community square where the meeting was taking place prompted PDP members to quickly disperse and reconvene at a private location to continue their discussions.

No Arrests Made Despite Tension

According to eyewitnesses, while the security operatives neither arrested nor physically confronted any party members, their silent presence was enough to cause the crowd to scatter in various directions before regrouping elsewhere.

Sources revealed that the PDP meeting was connected to a solidarity visit paid to former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu by his former appointees just a day earlier.

Conflicting Claims Over Meeting Approval

A senior Obingwa LGA official, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed the PDP failed to secure necessary approval for holding the meeting in a public space, which potentially posed a security risk.

"There is a regulation introduced by the immediate past administration prohibiting any political gathering in a public place without prior approval from the government," the official stated.

However, Aham Egbulefu, the PDP chairman in Obingwa LGA, strongly disputed this claim, insisting that his party had indeed obtained all necessary approvals before convening the meeting.

Government Response

When contacted, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Alex Otti, dismissed the gathering, suggesting that the organizers "did not mean well for Abia State" and were merely engaged in "content creating auditioning."

The incident highlights growing tensions between the current administration and opposition parties in Abia State, particularly regarding public gatherings and political activities.

This disruption comes amid reports of other political developments in the state, including the PDP's legal challenges over candidate disqualifications and calls from supporters of Governor Otti warning opposition parties against contesting the 2027 elections.

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