The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State demands the prosecution of Orlu Local Government Area Chairman Chris Mbarie over alleged inciting remarks directed at opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections. The PDP says a statement attributed to Mbarie suggests opposition parties would not operate freely in Orlu LGA. It cites a circulated video on social media as part of the basis for its complaint.

In a press statement, PDP spokesperson Lancelot Obiaku characterizes the remarks as disturbing and urges Nigeria’s police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate. The party says that if criminal responsibility is found, Mbarie should be arrested and prosecuted. It also warns against political intimidation, alleging past election-related threats and voter suppression tactics.

While both reports describe the same allegation, the accounts mainly differ in emphasis: Nigerian Eye highlights the political intimidation and potential suppression of opposition activities, as well as calls for monitoring by INEC, civil society, media, observers, and the international community. Daily Post Nigeria focuses more on the prosecution demand and the PDP’s broader position against intimidation of opposition parties and voters.