Prisca Iffy
The Interim State Executive Committee of the Action Peoples Party (APP), Imo State chapter, has condemned what it described as a sustained campaign of destruction and vandalism targeting the party’s billboard installations across the state.
The party alleged that its billboards are being deliberately pulled down and damaged by agents of the ruling party, particularly in Ideato North and Ideato South Federal Constituencies.
According to the APP, the repeated vandalisation of billboards belonging to Ikenga Ugochinyere, a prominent leader and stalwart of the party, is not accidental or isolated, but part of a calculated effort to undermine the visibility of opposition voices and suppress democratic expression in Imo State.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Cajetan Duke, the APP described the acts as a dangerous throwback to undemocratic practices, warning against the use of intimidation and harassment as tools for political advantage.
“As we move towards the 2027 general elections, the Action Peoples Party makes it clear that any attempt to deploy undemocratic tactics will not be tolerated by the party or the peace-loving people of Imo State,” the statement read in part.
The party noted that the acts of vandalism go beyond material damage, alleging that they are intended to instil fear among supporters, discourage public participation and distort the level playing field required for free, fair and credible elections.
The statement further accused the perpetrators of attempting to silence growing calls for genuine change, accountability and improved governance in the state by targeting APP’s billboard infrastructure and other campaign materials.
While calling on those responsible, including individuals or groups allegedly acting on behalf of the ruling party, to immediately desist from such actions, the APP urged all political actors to embrace issue-based campaigns anchored on ideas, policies and visions for development rather than intimidation and sabotage.
The party also appealed to relevant security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), to urgently investigate the incidents, identify those responsible and ensure their prosecution.
It further called for adequate security measures to protect political materials, party installations and all democratic actors, stressing the need for a peaceful and non-hostile political environment in Imo State.
Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful, inclusive and democratic progress, the Action Peoples Party called on the media, civil society organisations, community leaders and citizens of goodwill to reject political violence and thuggery, and to promote tolerance, dialogue and fair play as the state prepares for the 2027 general elections.
