Matters Arising from Former Abia Appointees’ Communique: Abia Patriots Issue Rejoinder

The Abia Patriots (TAP) have faulted the recent communique issued by former political appointees who served in Abia State between 1999 and 2023, questioning the motive behind what they described as a sudden and suspicious alignment among long-standing political adversaries.

In a statement signed by its Secretary General, Mazi Adindu Madumere, TAP raised concerns over what it termed the real intention of the coalition, asking whether the move was driven by genuine concern for governance or a calculated attempt to undermine the administration of Governor Alex Otti.

The group queried the urgency with which the former appointees reportedly resolved years of deep-seated political differences, noting that such unity appeared to have been achieved solely for the purpose of initiating legal action against Governor Otti.

TAP also questioned why, despite the alleged grievances now being raised, members of the coalition remained silent during the administration of former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu. According to the group, no legal threats were issued at the time, even when government affairs were reportedly conducted from Aba and Umuobiakwa, including official functions that involved the then Vice President.

The Patriots further asked why the former appointees chose to issue public threats of litigation rather than proceeding directly to court if their concerns were genuinely constitutional and procedural in nature.

In addition, TAP criticised what it described as the conduct displayed during the public presentation of the communique, alleging that the event exposed efforts to politically rehabilitate individuals who, in its view, failed to maintain decorum and restraint.

The group maintained that the actions of the former appointees raise serious questions about whether the agitation is rooted in public interest or driven by personal and political ambitions.

TAP said it strongly rebukes what it described as tactics aimed at mobilising resources to create tension, slow down governance, and distract the current administration from its reform agenda.

The Abia Patriots reiterated their commitment to good governance and urged all political actors to place the collective interest of Abia State above personal considerations.