The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State has raised concerns over plan by the state government to mobilise thugs for a street protest Saturday against the APC-led Federal Government.
The party said that the planned protest is intended to project APC and the federal government in bad light as well as cause chaos in the state.
Speaking with journalists in Uyo on Friday evening, the state chairman of APC National Youth Caucus, Mr. Iniobong John alleged that the state governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, is the sponsor of the protest, adding that the governor has mobilised funds to ensure the success of the remonstrance.
John alleged that Emmanuel is deceitful, unreliable and desperate, noting that such a leader is capable of triggering crisis and tension in the state.
“We gathered some credible information that PDP in Akwa Ibom State has concluded plan to stage a street protest on Saturday against Nigeria President Muhammad Buhari and the APC-led Federal Government in the country. And specifically to paint the image of our party in a bad light.
“We decided to alert the security agency and the public so that if there happens to be any break down of law and order, now or in the future, the security agencies will know. The protest is planned to take place tomorrow.
“As we speak, mobilisation has been done. Process to convey PDP thugs across the state has been mobilised. Funds have been sent for mobilisation. Local and national media have been mobilised. Meeting is ongoing now at the Government House for the plan.
“The protesters are to march from Ibom Plaza to Government House where the governor is going to address them. PDP government must learn to manage the frustration.
John warned PDP government against attacking APC members through any means in the state.
He said, “We want to tell the world that the state government is all out to bring down the image of Mr President. To make that before, during and after the 2019 election, crises are caused In the state.”
He called on security agencies to call the Governor to order to avoid further crisis in the state.
Meanwhile, Charles Udoh the state commissioner for Information and Strategy, blamed the APC for attempting to resurrect crises in the state thereby thwarting the relative peace witnessed in the state in the last three years.
He said, “That’s the usual ‘tramadol’ induced lies of APC in Akwa Ibom State. For three years Gov. Udom Emmanuel’s leadership in the state has witnessed peace and tranquility in all sectors.
“The antecedents of today’s government has painted an ambiguous picture of civilised leadership focused on sustainable development and not indulging on a mud slinging war.”
