The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State has demanded the prosecution of Orlu Local Government Area Chairman, Chris Mbarie, over remarks the party describes as incitement against opposition members ahead of the 2027 general Elections. In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Lancelot Obiaku, the PDP alleged that Mbarie declared opposition parties would not be allowed to operate freely in the council area, a claim supported by a video circulating on social media.
Obiaku said the language used by the council chairman is disturbing and borders on political intimidation and incitement, raising serious concerns about public safety, electoral freedom, and the integrity of the democratic process. The party has called on the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately investigate the statement, its context, and the intention behind it, urging that arrests and prosecution follow if criminal culpability is established.
The PDP stressed that no public official has the constitutional authority to designate any part of the state a political no‑go area for opposition parties, emphasizing that council areas belong to the people, not to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or any office holder. The statement further noted that the Constitution guarantees citizens the right to freely associate, assemble, campaign, and support the political party of their choice.
Obiaku warned that security agencies must not wait until threats translate into violence before acting. He referenced the last governorship election in the state, alleging that the APC used town criers in many communities to announce that anyone not voting for the party should stay away from polling units. The PDP described such tactics as criminal and vowed they would no longer be tolerated.
The opposition party pledged to document threats, report violations, and pursue every lawful avenue to protect voters’ rights and the electoral process. It called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organisations, the media, election observers, and the international community to monitor political activities in Orlu and other parts of Imo State ahead of the 2027 elections.
“If the APC and its officials truly enjoy the confidence of the people, they should go to the polls and earn their votes,” the release stated. “Elections must be decided by the people, not by threats, intimidation or violence.” The PDP insisted that the era of political intimidation and impunity must end, declaring that it will no longer be business as usual in Imo State.
