By Mardiyyah Abubakar
The Abia Solidarity Forum has called on anti-corruption and security agencies to remain neutral and uphold due process as political activities gather momentum ahead of elections in Abia State.
Addressing journalists in Umuahia on Sunday, the forum’s spokesperson, Chijioke Okwuoha, said the group had received unverified information suggesting that petitions and media reports could surface linking Labour Party chieftain and Bende Federal Constituency aspirant, Hon. Chima Anyaso, to alleged financial crimes.
Okwuoha stressed that the claims had not been independently verified and urged authorities to ensure any petitions are handled strictly in line with the law, free from political interference.
He said the forum supports lawful investigations where credible evidence exists but insisted that agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) must carry out their constitutional responsibilities independently and professionally.
According to him, any attempt to drag security or anti-graft institutions into politically motivated disputes could erode public confidence in the nation’s law enforcement system.
The forum therefore urged the EFCC, Police, DSS and other relevant agencies to assess every petition on its merits, guaranteeing fairness, transparency and due process throughout any investigation.
It also appealed to political actors in Abia State to conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns capable of strengthening democratic values rather than inflaming tensions.
The group encouraged voters to assess candidates based on their track records, manifestos and competence, while urging supporters of all political parties to remain law-abiding throughout the electoral process.
The concerns raised by the forum remain unverified. As of the time of filing this report, Hon. Chima Anyaso, the EFCC, the Nigeria Police Force and the DSS had not publicly responded to the claims.
