The Abia State Government has firmly rejected claims of a "Shadow Government" operating within the state, issuing a stern warning to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to refrain from using the term.
Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser to Governor Alex Otti on Media and Publicity, addressed the issue in response to recent PDP criticism of the state’s 2025 Q2 financial report, which was attributed to a so-called "PDP Shadow Government." Ekeoma clarified that the concept of a shadow government is incompatible with Nigeria’s presidential system and accused the PDP of attempting to "cause nuisance" by invoking it.
"A shadow government does not exist in a presidential system of government," Ekeoma stated. He noted that the state government had previously warned against the term’s use in 2024 when the PDP first introduced the idea, taking decisive action to curb such activities. Ekeoma further referenced a recent Federal Government directive prohibiting the formation of shadow governments, warning that any renewed attempt by the PDP to revive the concept would provoke a "fierce response" from the state.
Ekeoma emphasized that political parties, including the PDP, have constitutional and legal frameworks, such as those outlined in Nigeria’s Constitution and Electoral Act, to operate responsibly as opposition without resorting to disruptive tactics.
Addressing financial concerns raised by the PDP, Ekeoma cited a Debt Management Office report, asserting that the current administration has reduced Abia State’s debt profile. He clarified that any existing external debt was inherited from previous administrations.
The Abia State Government urged the PDP to pursue its opposition role constructively and avoid actions that could undermine public order or governance in the state.
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