Bende 2027: Group Raises Alarm Over Alleged Smear Campaign Against Chima Anyaso, Urges Security and Anti Corruption Agencies to Resist Alleged Political Pressure and Uphold Due Process
The Abia Solidarity Forum, a political pressure group, has alleged that there is a coordinated plan to drag Labour Party chieftain and Bende Federal Constituency aspirant, Dr. Chima Anyaso, into unfounded financial crime allegations ahead of the 2027 general elections. The group made the allegation while addressing journalists in Umuahia.
Speaking on behalf of the forum, its spokesperson, Chijioke Okwuoha, said the group had received information which it described as allegations that had not been independently verified. According to him, some political interests were allegedly planning to sponsor petitions and media campaigns aimed at portraying Anyaso as being under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other public institutions for political purposes.
The forum stressed that it was not opposed to lawful investigations of any citizen where credible evidence exists. However, it cautioned against the misuse of security and anti-corruption agencies for political battles, warning that such actions could undermine public confidence in institutions charged with enforcing the law. It therefore urged the agencies to remain professional, impartial and guided by due process in handling any petitions as political activities intensify ahead of the elections.
The group further appealed to political actors in Abia State to conduct their activities peacefully and avoid actions capable of creating unnecessary tension. It also alleged that Anyaso’s perceived support for Governor Alex Otti may have made him a target of political attacks, urging voters in Bende Federal Constituency to assess aspirants based on their integrity, competence, ideas and commitment to public service rather than unverified allegations.
The forum concluded by calling on supporters of all political aspirants to remain law-abiding and allow democratic competition to flourish in an atmosphere of peace, fairness and respect for the rule of law.
