In light of the recent allegations circulating online and within Abia State, falsely implicating the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, in the tragic death of Mr. Igwe Akuma, it is imperative to categorically refute these claims as baseless, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to tarnish the reputation of a public servant committed to peace and justice.

On January 2nd 2026, the Deputy Governor received a distress call from residents of the Okon Aku community reporting widespread violence, including the burning of homes, vehicles, and other properties. In response, he immediately contacted relevant security agencies, including the Divisional Police Officer of Ohafia Area Command and the 14 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, seeking urgent intervention. When these efforts yielded no immediate results, the Deputy Governor personally proceeded to the community with his security detail to assess and de-escalate the situation.

Upon arrival, he encountered roadblocks that had effectively sealed off the community, preventing both entry and exit. Using his vehicle’s public address system, he identified himself. The barricade was subsequently dismantled, and one individual, Mrs. Grace Udensi, was apprehended at the scene.

The Deputy Governor then proceeded to the residence of Ezieogo Ben Kama, who had earlier expressed fears for his safety. The Deputy Governor ensured his safe evacuation from the community.

This sequence of events raises critical questions that demand answers:

• Who authorized the blockade of Okon Aku’s entry and exit points?
• Who were the individuals responsible for setting fire to the homes, including that of Ezieogo Ben Kama?
• What were the motives behind these acts of violence?

On the return journey to Isiama, the Deputy Governor’s convoy encountered military personnel stationed near a site where two additional homes had been torched. At this location, five young men were discovered with gunshot wounds. According to their accounts, they had been shot by individuals from the Ndi Uma compound—reportedly associated with the late Mr. Igwe Akuma. The Deputy Governor promptly ordered that the injured be transported to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) for urgent medical attention.

Given these facts, it is both illogical and deeply irresponsible to accuse the Deputy Governor of involvement in Mr. Akuma’s death. Several pressing questions remain unanswered:

• Who had custody of Mr. Igwe Akuma’s body?
• Why was he not taken to a hospital in an attempt to save his life?
• Why was his body found in a Sienna vehicle rather than in a medical facility?

These are the questions that should guide any sincere investigation—not unfounded accusations aimed at discrediting a leader who acted swiftly and responsibly in a time of crisis.

It is high time we, as a people, move beyond the destructive “Pull Him Down” (PHD) syndrome. Progress in Ohafia and Abia State at large depends on unity, truth, and a collective commitment to justice.

Let us focus on uncovering the truth and holding the actual perpetrators accountable, rather than allowing misinformation to derail the pursuit of peace and justice.

Triple .O.