Political tension is rising in Ebonyi State as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) exchanged accusations over governance and the 2027 general election.
NNPP State Chairman, Mr. Ojeogu Ifeanyi, claimed his party is fully committed to unseating Governor Francis Nwifuru. Speaking in Abakaliki during a meeting of party council chairmen and the State Working Committee, Ojeogu criticized the APC-led administration, citing widespread hunger, poverty, infrastructural decay, harassment of opposition parties, and general underdevelopment.
“The purpose of our meeting is to strategize on taking over Ebonyi State Government House in 2027,” Ojeogu said, urging residents to obtain voter cards and support the NNPP gubernatorial candidate.
In response, the Ebonyi APC dismissed the claims as baseless and propagandistic. State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ogbuatu Simbad, described the opposition’s statements as false and mischievous, asserting that the NNPP lacks a significant structure, presence, or followership in the state.
Simbad defended Governor Nwifuru’s record, highlighting achievements in civil service welfare, healthcare delivery, and inclusive governance. “The Governor has consistently provided purposeful leadership, improved healthcare facilities, and ensured state hospitals and health centers function efficiently across communities,” he said.
The APC challenged NNPP leaders to substantiate claims of failure, insisting the opposition’s rhetoric is mere wishful thinking. Party officials encouraged residents to continue supporting Governor Nwifuru to sustain developmental progress across Ebonyi State.
The exchange underscores the growing political rivalry ahead of 2027, as parties position themselves for the upcoming gubernatorial contest. Analysts note that such clashes are likely to intensify in the months leading to the election, reflecting deep-seated competition in the state’s political landscape.
