Supporters of the Abia State Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, have dismissed a recent publication by Mr. Peter Kalu, Esq., describing it as a “politically motivated attack” aimed at undermining the rising profile of the state’s number two citizen.
In a strongly worded response made available to journalists, the Deputy Governor’s camp characterized the write-up as “a poorly scripted hatchet job,” allegedly orchestrated by individuals uncomfortable with Emetu’s leadership style and growing influence within the state’s political landscape.
According to the statement, Engr. Emetu’s appointment by Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, was based strictly on competence, credibility, and capacity not on religious or sentimental considerations, as allegedly suggested in the criticized article.
“To reduce such an appointment to mere religious sentiment is not only intellectually weak but also an indirect affront to the Governor’s judgment,” the statement noted, emphasizing that Governor Otti is widely regarded for making calculated, performance-driven decisions.
The Deputy Governor’s supporters maintained that Engr. Emetu has remained loyal and committed to the administration’s agenda, adding that he is not given to political theatrics or actions designed to attract undue public attention.
Addressing allegations that he mobilized women and youths to protest against Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, the statement described the claim as unfounded. It asserted that Engr. Emetu was not in the state at the time of the protest and stressed that citizens have a constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
“It is a misrepresentation of democratic principles to assume that every civic action must be orchestrated by the Deputy Governor,” the statement read, adding that he neither sponsored nor coordinated the protest.
The response also dismissed claims of rifts between Engr. Emetu and prominent sons of Ohafia, including Chief Umeh Kalu and Etigwe Uwa, SAN, describing such assertions as malicious fabrications intended to sow discord.
On issues involving Hon. Kalu Mba Nwoke (Etiokwe), the statement clarified that the matter centered on electoral processes and integrity rather than personal grievances, as portrayed by critics.
Regarding a reported incident involving Hon. Makiba, the Deputy Governor’s camp stated that available records indicate an alleged assault on a serving councillor, which prompted reactions from youths within the community. It further alleged that subsequent social media attacks against Engr. Emetu were unjustified and politically motivated.
The statement also cautioned against politicizing the death of the late Hon. Igwe Akuma, noting that the matter is currently under review by an Administrative Panel of Inquiry constituted by the Governor. It urged stakeholders to allow due process to take its course.
While reiterating that Engr. Emetu does not interfere in communal affairs, the statement questioned what it described as the selective focus on a single community within Ohafia Clan, which comprises 26 communities.
Supporters of the Deputy Governor concluded by affirming his commitment to governance and the transformational agenda of Governor Otti’s administration, stating that “propaganda cannot override performance.”
They urged public commentators to ensure that political criticism remains factual, responsible, and free of defamatory content.
