Nwifuru's problem is Ebonyi people, not Wike, says PDP
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Nigeria's PDP party dismissed claims by Ebonyi State Governor Nwifuru that Minister Nyesom Wike is causing his problems.
- The PDP insists Governor Nwifuru's real challenge is the dissatisfaction of Ebonyi State's people ahead of the 2027 election.
- The party criticized the governor's alleged threats against opposition figures and questioned his administration's development record, including spending on an airport renovation.
Nigeria's Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State's attempts to blame Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike for his political difficulties. The PDP asserts that Governor Nwifuru's primary challenge stems from growing discontent among the people of Ebonyi State, particularly as the 2027 governorship election approaches. The opposition party suggested the governor is seeking scapegoats while residents focus on his administration's performance. "The truth is that Governor Nwifuruโs challenge is not Chief Wike; his challenge is the people of Ebonyi State, who are yearning for competent leadership and genuine development," stated Hon. Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, the PDP's National Publicity Secretary, at the party's national secretariat in Abuja. The PDP's remarks follow alleged inflammatory statements by Governor Nwifuru at a rally, where he reportedly threatened to 'consume' and destroy opposition figures. The party condemned these remarks as reckless and warned they could escalate tensions within Ebonyi State, calling on security agencies and civil society organizations to take note. "Political disagreements must never be reduced to threats or rhetoric capable of endangering lives and undermining democratic participation," Jungudo added. Beyond the dispute with Wike, the PDP accused Governor Nwifuru of failing to deliver significant development and attempting to divert attention from his administration's track record. The party demanded an accounting for key projects, including a reported N24 billion spent on renovating Ebonyi Airport, which they claim has yielded minimal economic benefits. Concerns were also raised regarding the overseas scholarship program, the state of basic education, incomplete road projects, and funds allocated for traditional rulers' palaces. The PDP urged the governor to focus on explaining his administration's achievements rather than engaging in political blackmail and threats.
The truth is that Governor Nwifuruโs challenge is not Chief Wike; his challenge is the people of Ebonyi State, who are yearning for competent leadership and genuine development.
Originally published by Vanguard in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.