The Office of the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Ikechukwu Emetu, has denied allegations that he recruited and mobilised youths to attack supporters of President Bola Tinubu and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

The allegation was made by the Abia State chapter of the Tinubu Support Group (TSG), which called on security agencies to investigate the claim.

In a statement issued by the Deputy Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Cyril Mba, the office said Emetu had no involvement in recruiting, mobilising, arming or organising youths to carry out attacks against Tinubu supporters, APC members or any other person or group.

“The Deputy Governor has expressly stated that he has no involvement whatsoever in recruiting, mobilising, arming or otherwise organising youths to carry out attacks against supporters of President Tinubu, APC members or any other person or group,” the statement said.

The Deputy Governor’s office challenged the TSG and its spokesperson, Enyinna Nwigwe, to provide evidence supporting the allegations, including details of where and when the alleged recruitment took place, those who attended the purported meetings and the identities of the youths allegedly recruited.

It also requested evidence linking Emetu to the alleged activities, details of the weapons reportedly involved and any documentary, audio or video evidence supporting the claims.

The office further called on the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to invite Nwigwe to substantiate the allegations and provide any evidence in his possession.

Emetu said he was prepared to cooperate with any lawful investigation aimed at establishing the facts.

The statement added that the Deputy Governor would continue to engage Abians peacefully and participate in lawful political activities as the 2027 general elections approach.

Asked about the action he intended to take over the allegations, Emetu simply said, “This is the best I will be doing for now.”

The allegations and Emetu’s denial remain matters for verification by the relevant authorities. No finding establishing the allegations was cited in the reports reviewed.