Abia Government Takes Action Against Presidential Campaign Office
The Abia State Government has taken decisive action by sealing the campaign office of President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Partners (RHP) located in Umuahia, the state capital. The closure occurred on Ojike Street following allegations of tax law violations that have stirred political tensions in the Southeast region.
Legal Grounds for the Closure
Officials from the Ministry of Lands and Housing executed the sealing operation, citing specific violations of the state's tax legislation. According to documents posted at the entrance of the building, the property was found to be in contravention of Sections 41 and 100 of the Abia State Tax Law (Codification and Consolidation), Law No. 7 of 2020.
The official notice displayed on the building walls contained a stern warning: "This property is in contravention of Sections 41 and 100 of the Abia State Tax Law... Any person, including the owner/occupier, neighbour(s) or passer(s) by, who attempts to unseal this building is in contravention of the Abia state tax law No.7 of 2020. Be warned. Keep off."
Political Implications and Reactions
The sealed office represents a significant component of President Tinubu's political infrastructure in the Southeast, being promoted across the zone by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu. An anonymous RHP official expressed surprise at the sudden closure, revealing that they discovered the sealed office when resuming work without any prior notification from authorities.
Journalists attempting to obtain additional details faced challenges as phone numbers listed on the ministry's document remained unavailable at the time of reporting. This development has generated considerable attention throughout Umuahia, highlighting the state government's strict enforcement of tax compliance measures while raising questions about potential implications for political activities in Abia State.
The incident occurs against the backdrop of increased political activities across Nigeria, including initiatives by pro-Tinubu groups such as the Fruits of Renewed Hope Initiative, which recently announced plans for a nationwide tour to strengthen public trust in government policies.
