The Abia State government has strongly denied accusations that it invaded the premises of Enyimba Radio FM in Aba and harassed its workers.

The management of the radio station alleged that officials from the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) and Aba North Local Government Area, with the help of security agents, interrupted construction at their new site. The station also claimed that some of its staff members were arrested during the incident, sharing videos online to support their claims.

Responding to these allegations, Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Alex Otti, described the claims as false. He clarified that the incident stemmed from a three-story building project at the radio station’s premises, which is reportedly being developed as a hotel.

Ekeoma explained that the Abia North Planning Authority (ABNPA) had issued multiple legal notices to the developers, requesting compliance with development control laws. While the developers initially promised to submit the required documents, they failed to follow through and continued construction.

The Abia State government insists that its actions were focused on ensuring compliance with the law and had nothing to do with intimidating media organizations.

“On three occasions, the site was sealed as required by law by ABNPA and the developers, unlawfully, went ahead to remove government seals and continued their work, an offense punishable by law.

“Like every other media outfit, Abia State government has no problem with Enyimba FM Aba, and did absolutely nothing wrong against the management or staff of the radio station.”