The Abia State government, under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti, has firmly denied recent allegations suggesting its collaboration with the Eastern Security Network (ESN) to address insecurity issues within the state. These rumors, disseminated through a post by an anonymous blogger, claimed that Governor Otti had sanctioned the involvement of the ESN, purportedly linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to counter Fulani herdsmen and safeguard Abia farmers. The state government has vehemently refuted these claims, labeling them as entirely false, malicious, and deliberately misleading.

In a statement released on Sunday, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Special Adviser to Governor Otti on Media and Publicity, addressed the circulating rumors. He asserted that the allegations are baseless and have no connection to the current administration in Abia State. Ekeoma emphasized that these reports are intentionally designed to sow discord and incite unnecessary tension among the state's residents. He further noted that similar fabricated claims had surfaced in the past and were initially disregarded by the government. However, the decision to address the present speculation stems from a desire to prevent unsuspecting members of the public from falling victim to what the government considers a "dubious fabrication."

Ekeoma's statement explicitly refuted the blogger's claims, asserting that Governor Otti's administration has not approved the involvement of the ESN to confront Fulani herdsmen or protect Abia farmers. He reiterated the government's unwavering confidence in the state's established security agencies, which led to the formation of the joint security task force known as "Operation Crush." This task force, according to Ekeoma, has achieved significant success in maintaining safety and security throughout the state, despite isolated incidents of armed robbery and kidnapping, which the government is actively working to eradicate completely.

The statement also carried a strong warning to those engaged in what the government perceives as "dirty politics" aimed at inciting fear and violence. The government cautioned that individuals who deliberately endanger the lives and properties of Abia residents will face severe consequences if apprehended. The Abia State government has urged residents to disregard the false statements and recognize them as attempts by the state's adversaries to tarnish its image for their own self-serving purposes.

The Abia State government maintains that it is fully committed to working with established security agencies through Operation Crush to maintain law and order. The government’s official statement underscores its dedication to ensuring the safety and security of all residents while actively combating misinformation and attempts to destabilize the state.