Abia Deputy Governor Denies Threatening Tinubu Over Kanu and 2027 Elections
Abia State Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, has categorically denied making any threatening statements against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu concerning the detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and the upcoming 2027 general elections. The denial comes in response to a widely circulated statement that claimed Emetu vowed to teach Tinubu a bitter political lesson over Kanu's continued detention.
Fabricated Statement and Official Denial
In a statement issued on Friday, February 13, 2026, by his Chief Press Secretary, Chukwudi Mba, Emetu described the viral report as entirely fabricated and a deliberate misrepresentation of his position. Mba emphasized that the language attributed to the deputy governor does not reflect his character, temperament, or leadership style.
The statement read: "The report in question is entirely false, lacks verifiable context, and fails to provide essential media attributes such as the date, venue, or occasion where such remarks were allegedly made. No official event, interview, press briefing, or public engagement exists where the Deputy Governor issued the quoted statements."
Mba further clarified: "At no time did the Deputy Governor threaten to 'teach' President Bola Tinubu or any member of his family a 'bitter political lesson,' nor did he make the reckless remarks credited to him concerning the 2027 general elections or the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu."
Commitment to Democratic Principles
Emetu reiterated his commitment to democratic engagement and issue-based politics, firmly rejecting any form of threats or intimidation. While acknowledging that Kanu's detention remains a sensitive national issue that evokes strong emotions among citizens, the deputy governor maintained that such concerns should be addressed through lawful, constitutional, and dialogue-driven processes.
The statement emphasized: "He does not subscribe to threats, political intimidation, or divisive statements." This position aligns with Emetu's consistent advocacy for peaceful resolution of political and social issues through proper channels.
Background on Nnamdi Kanu's Case
The controversy arises amid ongoing developments in the case of Nnamdi Kanu, the IPOB leader who was sentenced to life imprisonment for terrorism offences on November 20, 2025, by the Federal High Court. Kanu's detention has remained a contentious issue, particularly in Nigeria's South-East region.
Recent developments include:
- The South-East caucus in the House of Representatives has resolved to appeal directly to President Tinubu on behalf of Kanu, seeking presidential pardon.
- Kanu's legal team, led by Maxwell Opara, visited him at the Sokoto Correctional Centre on November 23, 2025, following his sentencing.
- Various legal maneuvers and appeals have been initiated by Kanu's supporters, though the case continues to unfold through Nigeria's judicial system.
The deputy governor's denial comes at a time when political tensions are already heightened ahead of the 2027 elections, with various stakeholders positioning themselves and clarifying their stands on critical national issues.
This report is based on official statements from the Abia State Deputy Governor's office and verified media sources, ensuring accuracy in presenting the facts surrounding this developing story.
