Former Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has categorically denied accusations attributed to him regarding his successor, Governor Alex Otti, and the latter’s purported claims of credit for projects initiated during Ikpeazu’s tenure. Ikpeazu, through his spokesman, Onyebuchi Ememanka, labeled the circulating reports as fabricated, misleading, and the product of malicious intent aimed at generating online traffic and sowing discord. He emphasized his maintained silence on the current administration’s activities since leaving office, underscoring that any authorized communication from him has solely addressed official inquiries raised by the current government, and even those instances have been infrequent. The former governor unequivocally stated that he has made no pronouncements concerning Governor Otti’s actions or policies, distancing himself entirely from the narrative suggesting a dispute over project ownership.
The controversy stems from social media posts bearing headlines such as “Alex Otti is Stealing My Projects to Take My Glory – Ikpeazu.” These headlines, according to Ikpeazu’s statement, are entirely false and maliciously designed to create a false impression of conflict between the two administrations. Ikpeazu asserts that since leaving office, his focus has shifted to personal pursuits, and he has deliberately refrained from commenting on the current political landscape in Abia State. He maintains that the only exceptions to this self-imposed silence have been responses to official inquiries from the present government, clarifying specific matters as needed. This measured approach, he argues, demonstrates his commitment to a smooth transition of power and a respect for the democratic process.
The former governor’s statement further emphasizes the importance of verifying information before sharing it on social media platforms. He highlights the potential legal ramifications of disseminating false information, both for the creators and those who propagate such content. This warning serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with online engagement and the need to uphold ethical standards of communication. Ikpeazu’s stance underscores the detrimental impact of misinformation and its potential to disrupt public discourse and create unnecessary tension. He advocates for responsible online behavior and a commitment to seeking accurate information from credible sources.
To combat the spread of these false narratives, Ikpeazu has initiated legal action against the individuals and bloggers responsible for fabricating and disseminating the misleading reports. He is collaborating with security agencies to identify the sources of the misinformation and hold them accountable for their actions. This decisive action underscores the seriousness with which he views the issue and his determination to protect his reputation from malicious attacks. He emphasizes that those seeking to confirm the authenticity of any statement attributed to him should consult official channels rather than relying on unverified social media posts.
Furthermore, Ikpeazu’s spokesman reiterated the former governor’s commitment to upholding the dignity of his office and maintaining a respectful distance from the day-to-day affairs of the current administration. This commitment, according to the statement, reflects Ikpeazu’s belief in allowing the democratically elected government the space to operate without undue interference. It also underscores his focus on moving forward with his personal endeavors and contributing to society in other capacities. The spokesman stressed that any attempt to draw Ikpeazu into unnecessary controversies should be disregarded, and the public should rely on official communication channels for accurate information.
In concluding, the statement serves as a clear rebuttal of the false accusations circulating online and a reaffirmation of Ikpeazu’s commitment to responsible public engagement. He urges the public to exercise caution and discernment when encountering information on social media, emphasizing the importance of verifying its authenticity before sharing. By taking legal action against those responsible for spreading falsehoods, Ikpeazu aims to deter future instances of misinformation and promote a more responsible and accountable online environment. He encourages the public to seek accurate information through verified channels and to contribute to a more informed and less divisive public discourse.
