The Abia Online Media Publishers Association has condemn the attempt to gag media practitioners in Abia state.
In a statement signed by the state Chairman, Comrade Ugochukwu Nwankwo, he noted that, the world over and in all democracies across the globe, constructive criticism is an integral part of governance.
Mr. Nwankwo posited that, opposition elements are there to remind the government in power that there is an alternative structure waiting to grab their stool, should they fail to deliver on the mandate given by the people.
Stressing that, every visionary and progressive government that truly wants to succeed usually courts and improves on the loopholes magnified by her Critics because these days and in our clime, some people around the man in power only sing praises in order to curry favour.
He added “It is on this note that the Abia Online Media Publishers Organization, the umbrella body of all bloggers and online media practitioners in Abia state, condemns in strong terms the recent audio recording of an intimidating phone call allegedly made to An Abian by Erondu Uchenna Erondu Jnr, one of the aides to the Governor of Abia state, threatening Fire and Brimstone, spitting fire and raising Hell on how he will so deal with the young man if he dares to criticize the Government of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu”
Mr. Nwankwo stated that the phone call, where in the Governor’s aide boasted of the many people he has dealt with and threatening to put the young man away if he dares to exercise his freedom of speech is the height of barbarism and an exhibition of power drunkenness that should be condemned by every well meaning Abian because it will amount to setting a wrong precedence that may trigger a breakdown of law and order in the state.
The Chairman, however admonished the opposition elements and critics to be constructive in their approach if truly the motive is the overall good of the state.
While calling on the Governor of Abia state to call this particular Aide and his cohorts to order, and also be wary of the character of the individuals he puts in positions of trust on behalf of our people.
Noting that, none of us is more Abian than the other and we are known as a peaceful people and therefore cannot afford to allow our state degenerate into a society bereft of civility and peaceful coexistence.
“Enough of this harassment, intimidation and maiming of Government Critics in Abia state.” Comrade Nwankwo added.
He expressed confidence that the Governor has the capacity to nip this ugly trend in its bud now.
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