The 2027 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Abia State, Eric Opah, has denied reports circulating on social media claiming that he promised to release IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu if elected governor of Abia State.
In the report, Eric Opah was quoted as saying:
“I will set Mazi Nnamdi Kanu free once I become Governor of Abia State in 2027. I said it, and I will do it. I have the capacity, don’t doubt me.”
However, responding to the trending report, the Abia APC candidate described the story as false, misleading, and the handiwork of desperate people.
Speaking through Eric Ikwuagwu, the Director of Media and Publicity of the Eric Opah Campaign Organisation, the APC candidate said the sole aim of the report was to drag his name into unnecessary controversy.
“At no time did Chief Eric Opah make such a statement, either publicly or privately. The fabrication is a clear demonstration of the growing desperation among certain individuals and political actors who have chosen the path of falsehood, propaganda, and character assassination instead of issue-based politics.
“It is highly condemnable that some persons would deliberately manufacture fake quotes and circulate them in an attempt to deceive unsuspecting members of the public and create tension within the polity.
“Chief Eric Opah remains a responsible leader committed to lawful governance, peace, development, and constructive engagement on issues affecting Abia State and the nation at large. He will not be distracted by the antics of mischief-makers and enemies of progress,” the statement said.
The statement further urged members of the public, party faithful, and supporters of the candidate to disregard the fake news.