The office of Abia State’s Deputy Governor, Ikechuckwu Emetu, has refuted claims that Kalu Mba Nwoke, a Labour Party lawmaker representing Ohafia South constituency, was kidnapped on Saturday.
Instead, Chukwudi Eke Mba, the Chief Press Secretary, revealed that Nwoke was lawfully arrested for allegedly invading the Ohafia local government secretariat with over 50 thugs.
According to Eke Mba, Nwoke’s actions were an attempt to intimidate voters and hijack electoral materials during distribution to various wards. The Chief Press Secretary stated, “Going by what transpired, Hon. Kalu Mba Nwoke intimidated the electorates he is representing by invading the local government Secretariat with over 50 thugs and forcefully trying to hijack electoral materials during its distribution to various wards.”
Eke Mba emphasized that Nwoke’s arrest was lawful, citing obstruction of the electoral process as a criminal offense. He also denied allegations made by Etigwe Uwa (SAN) that the Deputy Governor instructed security agencies to detain individuals, including Nwoke, who was allegedly beaten and taken away on election day.
Reports confirmed his release by the police on Sunday.
In a statement, Eke Mba reassured the public that there were no instances of kidnapping or intimidation of political opponents in Ohafia before or during the election.
