_Masked Men Storm Labour Party Meeting in Abia, Sparking Tensions Ahead of Local Elections_

_Masked Men Storm Labour Party Meeting in Abia, Sparking Tensions Ahead of Local Elections_

A dramatic scene unfolded in Aba, Abia State, as masked men, suspected to be policemen, disrupted a Labour Party meeting, leaving members shaken and outraged. The incident has sparked concerns about the integrity of the upcoming November 2 local government elections.

Over 20 masked men stormed the meeting venue, ordering members to remain silent. Five of them approached Prince G.O. Ndubueze, secretary of the Labour Party local government election committee, and informed him of his arrest. However, the members refused to let Ndubueze be taken away, citing the lack of a warrant.

In solidarity, over 500 Labour Party members marched with Ndubueze to the Aba Area police command, protesting the police action. Ndubueze, in an interview with Vanguard, vowed to resist intimidation from Governor Alex Otti, who he accuses of attempting to impose chairmanship and councillorship candidates in the upcoming elections.

"I didn't receive any warrant of arrest," Ndubueze stated. "I'm not even sure if they're genuine policemen, but as a law-abiding citizen, I'll cooperate. However, I won't bow to Governor Otti's intimidation. We won't allow him to impose candidates. This governor, who came to power through legitimate elections, should respect the democratic process".

The Labour Party in Abia State, led by Chairman Ceekay Igara and Secretary Rev. Andrew Ohiagba, has been vocal about its opposition to imposition. The party's stance is crucial, given the state's complex political landscape. Abia State, governed by Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party since 2023, has a history of political tensions.

As the November 2 local government elections approach, the incident has raised concerns about electoral integrity and the role of law enforcement. The Labour Party's determination to resist imposition and ensure a free, fair election will be closely watched.

The true identity of the masked men remains unclear, sparking speculation about their motives. Governor Otti's office has yet to comment on the incident, fueling tensions. The Abia State Police Command has also maintained silence, prompting demands for transparency.

The incident may impact the credibility of the upcoming local government elections. Political analysts warn that such actions could undermine public trust in the electoral process. The Labour Party's resolve to uphold democratic principles has garnered support from civil society organizations and election observers.

The situation in Abia State will continue to unfold, with the Labour Party and its supporters advocating for transparency and democratic principles. As the elections draw near, all eyes are on Abia State, where the battle for electoral integrity and accountability has taken center stage.

The international community is also monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of free, fair, and peaceful elections. The Nigerian government has been urged to ensure that the security agencies act impartially and maintain the integrity of the electoral process.

In the face of these challenges, the Labour Party remains resolute in its commitment to democracy and the rule of law. The party's leadership has called on its supporters to remain calm but vigilant, emphasizing the need for collective action to protect the democratic process.