PRESS RELEASE: IGNORE THE FAKE NEWS OF ABIA GOVERNMENT ENGAGING ESN TO FIGHT CRIME

The Abia State Government has strongly refuted a viral claim alleging that Governor Alex Otti has approved the involvement of IPOB’s Eastern Security Network (ESN) to confront Fulani herdsmen and protect farmers in the state.

Describing the statement as "false, malicious, and misleading," the government emphasized that no such approval was given and denounced the publication as a deliberate attempt to stir tension and misinform the public.

In an official statement signed by Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, the government clarified that Abia remains fully committed to working with recognized security agencies, not non-state actors, in addressing security concerns.

"The authors of this fabricated post are simply trying to incite fear and paint the state in a negative light for selfish political gain," Ekeoma said. "We ignored similar fake claims weeks ago, but it has become necessary to clear the air before innocent citizens fall for such dangerous lies."

He reiterated that under Governor Otti’s leadership, "Operation Crush", the state’s joint security taskforce, continues to maintain peace and safety across Abia, even while the government works tirelessly to eliminate isolated incidents of crime.

Residents have been urged to disregard the viral post and remain calm, as the government continues to strengthen security efforts and pursue legal action against those spreading divisive falsehoods.