EBONYI 2027: Why I’ll serve one term, crush poverty — Odii, PDP gov candidate
PDP’s Ifeanyi Odii Unveils Four-Point Plan Ahead of Governorship Election
By Clifford Ndujihe, Politics Editor
EBONYI STATE— Chief Ifeanyi Odii, the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Ebonyi State, has promised to serve a single term while addressing the state’s socio-economic and political challenges. In a recent interview in Lagos, he introduced a four-point agenda aimed at alleviating poverty, insecurity, and infrastructural deterioration.
Odii, who built his career in the private sector, emphasized that effective leadership is crucial for Nigeria’s development. He characterized his strategy as a comprehensive economic transformation plan that seeks to reduce the state’s dependence on federal allocations.
“Relying on crude oil is no longer a viable option for any forward-thinking government,” he said. “Ebonyi is rich in solid minerals, arable land, and tourism potential. My goal is to create a robust economy by heavily investing in creative industries and facilitating an environment for the private sector to flourish.”
The proposed agricultural initiative focuses on tapping into the fertile soils of Ebonyi’s three senatorial districts. Odii advocates for a shift from traditional subsistence farming to large-scale commercial cultivation and agro-processing. He highlighted specific clusters for the industrial-scale processing of crops like yam, cassava, and rice, and emphasized the commercialization of cassava for industrial uses.
Odii also addressed the interconnectedness of poverty and rising insecurity in the state. He noted demographic studies indicating that a high percentage of the state’s population lives below the poverty line, which leads to social unrest.
“A hungry man is an angry man,” Odii warned, stressing that tackling hunger is essential in reducing crime. His administration would utilize advanced technology for community security while addressing hunger as a root cause of criminal behavior.
In discussing electricity, which has historically hindered local industries, Odii pledged to expedite a reform using insights from recent constitutional amendments. He pointed to his home in Banana Island, Ikoyi, as an example of sustainable energy possibilities. His plan includes utilizing agro-wastes like rice husks and corn stalks to generate alternative energy sources.
On the contentious topic of zoning in Ebonyi, Odii clarified that the existing “charter of equity” is not formally documented and suggested that such narratives often arise from a deficit of competency among politicians. He provided historical context around power distribution between the Abakaliki and Afikpo regions and declared his candidacy based on merit rather than sectional sentiment.
Addressing concerns within the PDP, Odii refuted claims of factionalism and described them as distractions. He affirmed that the party’s leadership is unified and has complied with necessary electoral procedures, pledging adherence to constitutional processes in resolving internal disputes.
Reflecting on his past campaign experiences, Odii identified voter apathy as a critical issue. To combat vote-buying, his team has initiated grassroots educational efforts aimed at changing voters’ mindsets and enhancing civic engagement.
In a departure from customary political practices, Odii vowed to serve only one term if elected. “I have set forth a clear plan for what I want to achieve within four years,” he stated, expressing confidence that measurable progress would occur within his administration.
As Odii prepares for the upcoming election, he calls on the electorate to engage actively in the political process and reject defeatist attitudes that contribute to low voter turnout.