‘Political intimidation’ — Renewed Hope Partners accuses Otti of sealing its Abia office

The Renewed Hope Partners (RHP) has accused Alex Otti, governor of Abia, of sealing its office in Umuahia, the state capital.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Elton Onwu, RHP spokesman, said the facility situated at 36 Ojike Lane, Umuahia, was shut without prior notice.

The organisation, which promotes the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, said the building had been abandoned for more than three decades before it was renovated and converted into its south-east regional headquarters.

The group, which is convened by Benjamin Kalu, deputy speaker of the house of representatives, said the sealing of the office is “political intimidation”.

“We moved into the building in June 2025 after an extensive renovation of the facility. One wonders why the various taxes or notifications were not sent to owners of the property before the Renewed Hope Partners took over,” the statement reads.

Onwu claimed the office was shut because it is linked to Kalu.

“It is pertinent to note that the Renewed Hope Partners already has offices across the 184 wards of Abia State. So, how many more of these offices is the Governor going to target?” he asked.

The group alleged a pattern of hostility from the state government, claiming attempts were previously made to disrupt the inauguration of RHP ward executives in Osisioma and Obingwa LGAs.

“We question the timing and motivations behind the sealing of the office, and we demand an explanation from the governor,” Onwu said.

“Why was no notice given to us? It is very conspicuous that the actions of Governor Otti are a clear example of dictatorship and a disregard for the rule of law.

“We will not be intimidated or silenced, and we will continue to promote the Renewed Hope agenda of President Tinubu, no matter the obstacles.”

Onwu asked Otti to unseal the office to enable the group work for Nigerians.