The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State has accused Governor Alex Otti’s administration of using the courts and other state institutions to intimidate opposition members and silence critics demanding accountability.

The allegation was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the APC Publicity Secretary, Uche Aguoru, who claimed that several opposition figures had been harassed or taken to court for questioning government actions and calling for transparency.

According to the party, some individuals have been subjected to legal actions for expressing concerns over governance and public accountability in the state.

The APC further alleged that over ten opposition members had been dragged before various courts in Abuja, Lagos, and Abia for demanding transparency from the administration.

It also argued that despite Governor Otti’s current position, he had previously built his political profile as a vocal opposition figure who openly criticised past administrations without facing similar treatment.

The party insisted that its role remains to promote accountability, transparency, and prudent management of public resources, stressing that it would not be intimidated into silence.

“Our interventions have remained focused on governance, accountability, transparency, prudent management of public resources, and the protection of citizens’ rights,” the party stated.

It added that it would continue to scrutinise government actions and demand answers where necessary, describing such engagement as a constitutional right in a democracy.

The APC also called on the state government to stop what it described as the “weaponisation of the courts” against political opponents.

In response, the Labour Party in Abia State dismissed the allegations, describing them as propaganda and lacking credible evidence.

The party’s Publicity Secretary, Iroegbu Emenike, said asking individuals to substantiate claims in court does not amount to intimidation or harassment.

He argued that Governor Otti has a strong background in opposition politics and had previously challenged governments without resorting to what he called false accusations or political propaganda.

Emenike maintained that a responsible opposition should focus on presenting alternatives and evidence-based criticism rather than unverified claims.

He also referenced earlier allegations by the APC claiming that the state government spent N5 billion to destabilise the party, noting that no proof had been provided to support the claim.

According to him, the administration remains open to criticism but expects all allegations to be backed with facts.

He urged political actors to avoid misleading the public, adding that residents of the state are capable of distinguishing between governance issues and political disputes.