In a statement issued on Thursday, the Sultan’s media team, through Prince Bashir Adefaka, warned an American commentator identified as Mac Arnold to stop spreading what it described as baseless and defamatory claims.

The statement said Mac Arnold had made a series of sensational allegations aimed at drawing public attention while targeting the person and office of the Sultan.

According to the Sultan’s media team, the claims suggesting any link between the traditional ruler and violence or terrorism are misleading and unsupported by credible evidence.

It stressed that the Sultan remains a respected religious and national leader who has consistently promoted peace, interfaith harmony, and national unity both in Nigeria and internationally.

The statement urged members of the public and the global community to verify information from reliable sources and avoid amplifying divisive content that could inflame tensions.

It also warned that any defamatory material or comments capable of inciting discord would be subjected to legal action under both Nigerian and international laws.

The Sultanate reaffirmed its commitment to peace, justice, and national unity, insisting that it would continue working with relevant stakeholders to promote stability and coexistence.

Mimiko announced his decision in a resignation letter dated April 10, 2026, addressed to the PDP chairman of Ward 7 in Ondo West Local Government Area.

In the letter, the former governor said growing speculation about his political future made it necessary for him to clarify his status.

He noted that he had been largely absent from party activities in recent times and wanted it clearly stated that he is no longer a member of the PDP.

“I am tendering my resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party, effective from April 10, 2026,” he wrote.

Mimiko added that his decision was made without bitterness or ill feelings toward anyone in the party.

The development was confirmed by his former Chief Press Secretary, Eni Akinsola, who said the resignation letter had been duly submitted, although he did not disclose further details.

FERMA’s South-East 2 Zonal Director, Suleiman Mohammed Omonowo, issued the warning during an inspection of the project, cautioning against the burning of tyres during celebrations, which he said could damage the road surface.

He noted that destructive practices by some youths and community members often contribute to the early failure of road projects across the country.

“Our advice to road users, especially indigenes, is to protect the road from destruction. Let nobody come and destroy it or burn tyres in the name of celebration,” he said.

Omonowo said the Aba–Azumini highway was previously in a very bad condition before FERMA intervened, describing it as a death trap for commuters and residents.

He also expressed satisfaction with the quality of work done on the project, adding that drainage structures such as catch pits would help prevent flooding and extend the lifespan of the road.

According to him, the highway serves as a major link between Aba, several Abia communities, and Cross River State, carrying heavy traffic daily.

He urged local construction firms to improve on quality delivery to compete effectively with foreign contractors.

Meanwhile, the Federal Roads Maintenance Engineer in Abia State, Festus Okafor, said FERMA workers have not faced harassment or violence from residents during operations in the state.