Ebonyi LG elections peaceful – Nwifuru
Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru characterized Saturday’s local government elections as a vital democratic process and emphasized that it should not be approached as a conflict. Speaking to reporters after casting his ballot, Nwifuru noted that the elections allow citizens to select their leaders freely.
“There is no need for undue anxiety about this exercise,” he stated, asserting that candidates were chosen by the electorate and their respective political parties. He reiterated, “It is the will of the people. You don’t need security when people are choosing candidates in an election.”
Nwifuru described the electoral process as ongoing and not a battleground, urging constituents to focus on voting for their preferred candidates. The governor expressed confidence in the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates, wishing for the party’s success in the elections. “I am a party man and believe my party and its candidates have what it takes to occupy the positions they are contesting for,” he said.
He acknowledged the importance of political opposition in a democracy, explaining that opponents can highlight government shortcomings and areas needing improvement. “Having an opponent is also good,” Nwifuru indicated, adding that while he sees himself as the APC leader in Ebonyi, he welcomes credible challenges from other parties.
Regarding the upcoming 2027 general election, Nwifuru expressed his intention to seek endorsement from the people of Ebonyi rather than from other political parties. “I have been appealing to the people to endorse me, not political parties,” he emphasized.
In addition, the governor cautioned against judging individuals based on appearance, stressing that one’s outward look does not reflect their mindset or character.
The Chairman of the APC in Ebonyi State, Stanley Okoro-Emegha, reported a high voter turnout at polling stations he visited in Edda Local Government Area. After casting his vote, Okoro-Emegha noted the encouraging participation, although he acknowledged some logistical challenges, particularly related to voter registration and necessary documentation.
He remarked that some registered individuals were unable to vote due to lacking required documents. Despite this, Okoro-Emegha encouraged party supporters to engage peacefully in the electoral process.
The APC chairman highlighted the party’s focus on grassroots mobilization and issue-based campaigning, contrasting it with what he termed social media-driven campaigns. “We are now out to show a campaign that is based on issues,” he stated, reinforcing the APC’s commitment to engaging directly with voters.
He concluded that the turnout observed reflected the community’s interest in participating in the democratic process and reaffirmed the party’s intention to monitor the ongoing elections throughout the state.
