2027: Nwifuru will defeat opposition, says Nwebonyi

Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State praised the peaceful conduct of the recent local government elections, which took place across the state’s 13 local government areas and 171 wards. Speaking after casting his ballot at a polling unit in Opherekpe, Nwifuru emphasized that the electoral process should be viewed as a democratic exercise rather than a battleground for conflict. He expressed confidence in the prospects of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that the party was well-positioned to secure victories in both chairmanship and councillorship positions throughout the state. The governor, who serves as the leader of the APC in Ebonyi, reiterated his belief that elections are meant to empower citizens to make informed choices. “The process is ongoing. It is not a war; it is an election. That is why I believe we don’t need to stress ourselves over voting for a candidate of our choice to become our leader,” he explained. Nwifuru noted that while the APC had no direct political rivals within the party, he welcomed the presence of opposition parties, arguing that they played a crucial role in fostering accountability and highlighting areas requiring improvement. He elaborated that having political opponents is beneficial, as they can reveal weaknesses and encourage progress. “When you have opponents, it is not only about competition. They can also show you things you don’t know. Sometimes, you need opponents because they can expose your shortcomings and areas where you need to improve,” he said. This perspective underscores Nwifuru's commitment to constructive political engagement, even amid competitive electoral dynamics. Regarding the anticipated results of the polls, Nwifuru reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and its candidates. “Whether or not our party will win the election, my wish is for our party to win. I am a party man, and I believe in my party and all its candidates,” he declared. The governor expressed confidence in the capabilities of APC candidates, asserting that they were equipped to fulfill their roles effectively. In response to reports suggesting that some political parties might endorse him as a sole candidate, Nwifuru clarified that his focus lay with garnering public support rather than receiving backing from political organizations. “There is no need to ask whether I am making such a move. I don’t want political parties to endorse me. What I want is for the people of Ebonyi to endorse me,” he stated. This stance reflects his broader appeal to grassroots endorsement, aligning with his campaign strategy centered on community trust and participation. As the election results are expected to be announced soon, Nwifuru remains focused on ensuring the APC’s success while maintaining a respectful dialogue with opposing factions. His remarks highlight the delicate balance between political ambition and the principles of democratic governance, reinforcing the significance of this electoral cycle for Ebonyi State’s political landscape.