2027: Nwifuru’s problem is Ebonyi people, not Wike — PDP
PDP Criticizes Ebonyi Governor Nwifuru Amidst Growing Discontent
By Luminous Jannamike
ABUJA — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) issued a statement on Thursday rejecting claims by Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State that his political troubles are linked to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. The opposition party emphasized that Nwifuru’s primary challenge lies with the people of Ebonyi, who have expressed dissatisfaction with his administration as the 2027 governorship election approaches.
In remarks made at the PDP national secretariat, Hon. Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, accused Nwifuru of seeking political scapegoats rather than addressing the concerns of residents about his leadership. “The truth is that Governor Nwifuru’s challenge is not Chief Wike; his challenge is the people of Ebonyi State, who are yearning for competent leadership and genuine development,” Mohammed stated.
The PDP’s response follows comments Nwifuru allegedly made at a recent political rally, where he was reported to have threatened to ‘consume’ opposition figures in Ebonyi. The party condemned these remarks as reckless, suggesting they could exacerbate political tensions in the state.
“We call on security agencies and civil society organizations to take serious note of the Governor’s disturbing remarks about ‘consuming’ opposition members and leaders in the state,” Mohammed said. “Such language is unbecoming of a public office holder and has the potential to heighten political tensions.”
The PDP also criticized Nwifuru for failing to deliver substantial development, asserting that he is attempting to distract from his administration’s record. The party challenged the governor to account for the N24 billion reportedly spent on renovating the Ebonyi Airport, which they claim has yet to yield significant economic benefits. Additionally, they raised concerns regarding an overseas scholarship program, the state of basic education, and various uncompleted road projects.
“Instead of engaging in political blackmail and spreading unfounded allegations, the Governor should focus on explaining to the people of Ebonyi State why, after more than three years in office, his administration struggles to point to meaningful projects,” the PDP stated.
Rejecting attempts to connect Wike with Nwifuru’s current challenges, the PDP maintained that the FCT minister has no bearing on the governor’s difficulties. “Chief Wike is not Governor Nwifuru’s political peer and should not be drawn into the Governor’s self-inflicted challenges,” Mohammed said.
In a strategic move ahead of the 2027 elections, the PDP named Ambassador Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii as its candidate to contend against Nwifuru. “The upcoming election will not be about propaganda or intimidation; it will center on performance and accountability,” Mohammed asserted.
Concerns for the safety of PDP members and candidates in Ebonyi State were also raised. The party warned that if anything happened to its supporters, particularly Odii or his family, there would be clear accountability for the governor.
In contrast, another faction of the PDP expressed support for Nwifuru, defending his criticisms of Wike. Comrade Ini Ememobong, the National Publicity Secretary of the Interim National Working Committee, commended the governor for challenging what they called Wike’s alleged anti-party activities.
The faction asserted that Nwifuru’s warnings against Wike’s interference in Ebonyi affairs were necessary given Wike’s history. Ememobong noted past allegations made against Wike by former Ebonyi Governor David Umahi, emphasizing the lack of a public response from the minister.
Reiterating its commitment as an opposition party, this faction declared that it would not align with the ruling party and reaffirmed its principles in political contests. They also urged the Nigerian public to support governors resisting Wike’s alleged disruptive tactics, highlighting the divergent views within the PDP regarding Wike’s involvement in opposition politics.
