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The coalition of Nigerian Professionals in Diaspora has endorsed Hon. Chinedu Ogah for the position of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives in the 10th national assembly.

The professionals comprise of Nigerians resident in the United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, Australia, China, India, Austria, Mexico, Ghana, Egypt and South Africa.

The professionals also include those who live in Turkey, France, Germany, Mexico, Brazil, Iceland, New Zealand, Morocco, Indonesia, Kenya, Zambia, and Colombia.

In a communique signed after its meeting held on 17th April 2023 and signed by its Chairman Dr George Monday, Secretary Dr Joy Ogbugo and other members, the professionals said that Ogah was fitting for the position.

The professional said that they have reviewed the political situation in the country and found the need to allot the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives to the South East in the spirit of national unity, equity, justice, integration and multi- ethnic diversity.

"We have examined the competence, characters, trustworthiness, capabilities, experience, expertise, and honesty of all National Assembly members elected from the south east zone and discovered that Ogah, representing Ikwo/Ezza South federal constituency is the most competent.

"He has both academic and leadership qualities to lead the incoming House of Representative as the deputy speaker and should be given opportunity.

"Ogah has remained one of the most influential supporters of All.Progresives Congress (APC) government in the south east and has demonstrated leadership in both private and public sectors.

"He has acquired extensive legislative experience through participation in various international legislative leadership training programmes across the world," the communique read.

The professionals continued that Ogah has the international connection to drive Nigerian professionals in the Diaspora.

"This will also extend to other foreign economic development experts into coming to invest in Nigeria in support for Nigerian socio-economic development.

"Therefore based on competence, outstanding pedigree,and leadership qualities of Ogah, we hereby strongly recommend him for election into the office of the deputy speaker in the incoming national assembly,"

The professionals also congratulated the President-elect Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and his Vice, Alhaji Kashim Shettima and the APC for their splendid victory in the just concluded 2023 general elections.

Polycarp Sola-Abakaliki


The chairman of the IKwo local government area of Ebonyi State, Mr. Sunday Nwankwo has reportedly ordered journalists monitoring the rerun elections of the Ikwo North State Constituency to leave Ndogadoshi 02 polling unit, Eche-Alike Ward 017.

Eye witness reports gathered that the incident happened a few minutes after the incumbent member, representing Ikwo North State Constituency l, Engr Humphrey Nwurukwu raised allegations that the council chairman had threatened to deal with voters of other political parties aside from the All Progressives Congress (APC).

"The election is not going well, that's why I'm here, the information I got this morning that made me be here is that they have announced that if you are not voting for APC you should go out.

"The chairman of the local government is heading them, that's why I said let me be here to know whether it is true, they've sent our people out, they carry a seat close to the ballot box to monitor people's vote," he said.

However, the council chairman denied the allegations and maintained that the exercise was going on well without security threats to voters.

"It's a civic responsibility and people must exercise it, I cannot scare people away from voting, election is about choice, people are free to make their choice". he said.

The lawmaker, who is contesting on the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) was said to have requested journalists to be present at the polling unit to observe his assertions.

Meanwhile, that did not go well the council chairman who immediately ordered them out of the polling unit and said he would not be responsible for their security.

A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi state, Chief Chaka Nweze has said that the state's Governor Elect, Rt.Hon Francis Nwifuru will govern the state well as he was a symbol of unity.

Nweze, the Pioneer Secretary of the APC in Ebonyi, said that Nwifuru will replicate Governor David Umahi's strides because he had been part of the divine mandate adminstration which has revolutionalised the state since coming on board in 2015.

The Chairman of the APC campaign council for the 2023 elections in Ohaozara Local Government Area, said that Nwufuru had grown under Umahi's tutulage to understand what should be done to continue moving the state forward.

"Nwifuru emerged like Umahi in 2015 when the people shunned clannish and other primordial sentiments to vote for equity and sustain the unity of the state.

"The izzi and Ezza people wholly supported Umahi despite the fact that their sons contested the governorship seat in 2015.

"The same thing has happened in 2023 when the people of the south zone and the Ezza people voted for Nwifuru despite the fact that their sons contested against him.

"This shows that the threshold of unity which has been firmly embedded with his victory will guide him in projecting Ebonyi higher in the comity of states,".

The Former Executive and subsequently Caretaker Chairman of Ohazara LGA of the state noted that Nwifuru has been part of the state's governance since 2011 and understands its dynamics and complexities.

"He has presided over the most peaceful House of Assembly in the state since 2015 and maintained an impeccable relationship with the executive arm of government.

"He has been an ardent apostle of Governor David Umahi and understands the intricacies of implementing governmental programmes and policies.

"Ebonyi is extremely lucky to have a worthy successor to Governor Umahi and it is evidently clear that the coming days would be good,".

The Former Vice Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) then urged the citizens of the state to translate the massive vote-support they offered to Nwifuru, into practical collaboration to enable him succeed in office.

"Those presently in court against his mandate should withdraw such immediately and join hands with his administration to take the state higher.

"Those who didn't support the equity cause should have a rethink and realise that such was in the overall interest of the state even generations unborn.

"Religious leaders and other segments of the state's existence should pray for Nwifuru and that God should give him wisdom and grace to effectively steer the ship to make Ebonyi a model and realise the dreams of our founding fathers,".

Polycarp Sola-Abakaliki

It was an atmosphere of jubilation in Ebonyi State following the certification of the 4th democratically elected Governor, R.t Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, and his deputy, Mrs. Patricia Obila by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Supporters, friends, and well-wishers came out en mass awaiting the certification of the governor-elect and his deputy, at the INEC office in Abakaliki, while dances and Jubilations trail his victory at the polls.

Nwifuru is the speaker of Ebonyi State House of Assembly and the Gubernatorial Candidate of the All Progressives Congress APC at the just conducted elections, a northern Ebonyi man of Izzi extraction who hitherto could not produce a governor until now, this has made him a historic figure in State politics.

The governor-elect, a young and energetic man is seen by many as a child of destiny, this is due to his varied experience in life as a common person which is now divinely elevated to the office of the number one citizen of a state.

He's no doubt exposed to the downtrodden, this perhaps explains why he's celebrated as a people's Mandate based on equity, fairness, and justice, coupled with his capacity to deliver the dividends of democracy to all Ebonyi people.

Earlier in his acceptance speech, the governor-elect assured both his supporters and opposition party members that he would run a youthful and all-inclusive Government to accommodate everyone in his bid to take the State to another level.

"I want to thank our teeming youths who came out believing in us and showing capacity towards our winning the election.

"This is a tasking job given to us, and I'm sure that with the support of our people and my deputy governor, we'll excel and deliver the dividends of democracy to the Ebonyi people.

"We will ensure that we create a medium to relate to our people at all levels, irrespective of our differences, to bring our elders and run an all-inclusive Government for all to benefit". He said.

Nnanna Nwangele, an APC stalwart Congratulated the Ebonyi people for choosing Nwifuru to be their leader and assuring them that he would not disappoint their expectations.

"His manifesto has said it all, we believe in him and his capacity to deliver what he says, we are confident that he would deliver'. Nwangele said.

R.t Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru is the 4th democratically elected Governor of Ebonyi State and his deputy, Mrs. Patricia Obila has pledged to work selflessly towards delivering good governance to Ebonyi people.

Polycarp Sola-Abakaliki

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State has rejected the outcome of the gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections in the State.

Chairman of the party, Barrister Ifeanyi Nworie said at a press conference which was held today at the party's campaign office in Abakaliki that the process was marred with violence and irregularities.

"Gentlemen of the press, it is obvious that what happened on the 18th was a melodramatic replay of what happened during the Presidential/National Assembly Election of 25th February 2023.

"We wish to hereby state categorically and unequivocally that the APC perfected a pre-determined charade in collaboration with INEC and announced concocted results, which were condemnable and unacceptable to us.

"INEC never acquitted itself creditably with patriotism and the high sense of responsibility expected of it," he said.

Nworie, further maintained that the Gubernatorial Candidate of the party in the State, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii had won the election but the upturning of the results by INEC in collaboration with the All Progressives Congress APC in the State.

"We unflinchingly state that our candidate was duly elected by a majority of the lawful votes cast in the election for the office of the Governor of Ebonyi State". he added.

According to him, the APC had unleashed violence on opposition political parties in the State, while recounting the gruesome murder of some of the party faithful and the destruction of properties before, and on election day.

"Our opponents in APC resorted to electoral manipulations, violence, killings, and the desecration of electoral rules. In Ezza North LGA, the Chairman of PDP in the Council Area was murdered by elements believed to be APC thugs on election day.

"The same thing happened in Onicha Igboeze, where a PDP agent was shot dead in similar circumstances.
We note that in the build-up to the commencement of electioneering campaigns in the country.

"The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) stripped the opposition of a level playing field by denying them campaign venues, generated and unleashed multiple modes of conflict and sporadic attacks determinedly perpetrated to perfect disruptions, violence, vandalism, snatching of electoral materials, voter intimidation and suppression, manipulations of results and a plethora of fraudulent practices during the elections". Nworie explained.

He called on the security agencies to release PDP faithful in their custody allegedly arrested on the order of the State Governor, Engr David Nweze Umahi.

EBONYI

The Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports in Ebonyi, Charlse Akpu Enika has congratulated the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Rt.Hon Francis Nwifuru on his election as the 4th democratically elected governor of the state.

Akpuenika in a congratulatory message he signed on behalf of his family, management and staff of the state ministry of youth development and sports, described Nwifuru's election as "gratifying and wondrous from God".

"I also congratulate the Deputy Governor-Elect, Mrs Patricia Obila on her emergence.

"Indeed, this is a reflection that women have come to stay in the political annals of the state as you are the first democratically elected female governor of the state,".

The commissioner congratulated Governor David Umahi for being elected into the Senate and ensuring that he ethronned his successor.

"I heartily and with utmost humility, congratulate my mentor, the father of the state and leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, His Excellency, Chief, Engr David Umahi on these feats.

"You have despite all odds, enthroned your successor; the first of its kind in the state as you are indeed a leader with God's special grace.

" I also congratulate all candidates of the APC who won elections in various positions.

"To those who did not win, be assured that your mandate would surely be retrieved through all available legal means,".

Akpu Enika said that Nwifuru was a product of equity and he was confident that the governor-elect will bequeath justice, fairness and prosperity to Ebonyi like Umahi.

"You held the state house of assembly in peace, harmony and unity for 8 years which made it the most peaceful assembly in the history of the state.

"You collaborated with the governor to ensure that Ebonyi was transformed magically beyond everybody's expectations.

"Be assured of the same level of collaboration from the party faithful and people of the state who found you worthy to steer the ship,"

The Chairman of Abakaliki Rice Millers Association, Comrade Obeji Linus Nkwuda has congratulated the Governor-elect, Rt Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru on his Victory at the just concluded gubernatorial election in Ebonyi State.

Nwifuru polled a total of 199,131 votes to emerge victorious at the polls and consequently became the 4th democratically elected Governor from the Izzi extraction of Ebonyi North senatorial District.

In his congratulatory message, Obeji described Nwifuru as a destiny child whose time has come while expressing confidence that he would govern the State peacefully and consolidate on the works of his predecessor the outgoing Governor, Engr David Umahi.

"On behalf of my family and the entire rice millers in the State, I wish to convey our goodwill message to the Governor-elect, R.t Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.

"As we have all seen it, Nwifuru is a destiny child and it has reflected during the just concluded gubernatorial election which saw him emerge victorious with a landslide.

"We believe in his capacity as an experienced leader to consolidate on the existing good works of His Excellency, Engr David Nweze Umahi, who has brought fairness, equity, and justice by supporting his divine mandate.

"I wish to congratulate him and assure him of our continuous support towards seeing him succeed in his administration". it stated.

Eye witness reports...

Nnanna Nwangele, the FON Youth movement Urban Coordinator who doubles as the chairman of (APC) in the Kpiri-Kpiri ward has been accused of snatching a ballot box at his polling unit.

According to Eye witness reports, Nwangele reportedly came to his polling unit at Station urban secondary school, Kpiri-Kpiri opposite Pa Ngele Oruta township stadium, and shot sporadically to scare the electorates.

"Nnanna Nwangele is an APC person, he came with some boys and took ballot boxes and destroyed all the votes that people cast, I think the security agencies should declare him wanted". Anonymous source.

Nnanna Nwangele is a staunch supporter of the Gubernatorial Candidate of the All Progressives Congress APC in Ebonyi State, R.t Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.

Another eyewitness who pleaded anonymity said, " we have already sorted our materials, only for us to see Agile with his boys who came and threatened us with their guns, I and my friends ran away". she added.

Polycarp Sola-Abakaliki


Electorates have protested over the burning of electoral materials such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machine and other sensitive materials in Omege ward, Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

The protesters said the materials that were meant for the polling unit were destroyed by suspects allegedly sponsored by the State Government, against their right to vote for their preferred Candidate.

Omege ward is the polling unit of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Gubernatorial candidate in the State, Professor Ifeanyi Bernard Odoh who has faced several attacks before election day.

According to an Eye witness, the suspects who came to the polling unit shot sporadically and injured three people who are currently at the hospital and destroyed the BVAS machine.

Mr. Nwafor Benjamin, an APGA ward agent for the ward said it was an unfortunate situation as it has deprived the people of the right to Vote.

"What happened here is very unfortunate and it has never happened in Omege ward before, our youths and the civil defense men accompanied the materials from the local government to the polling unit.

"On reaching here, people were waiting for INEC to bring out the materials, unknown to us, some Ebubeagu people came down from a bike with pump action and started shooting and injured three people.

"One of them rushed to where INEC officials kept the materials and brought out sensitive items like the BVAS and register and started shooting to scare people away before burning the BVAS". he said.

Another witness who spoke anonymously regretted that the election materials were destroyed and consequently denied them the right to vote.

"We have been here since morning to vote but they have destroyed our materials, all the women are here to vote, we need to vote it is our right". she added.

Polycarp Sola-Abakaliki


Ahead of the march 18th gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections, the FON Youth movement Urban Coordinator, Hon. Nnanna Nwangele has maintained that R t Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru would be elected as the 4th Governor of Ebonyi State.

Rt Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru currently a two serving speaker of Ebonyi State House of Assembly and the Gubernatorial Candidate of the All Progressives Congress APC in Ebonyi State.

Recently, there have been several endorsements of his candidacy by opposition party bigwigs as well as relinquishing of guber ambition by others who believed in equity, fairness, and justice for Ebonyi.

Nwangele, who doubles as the chairman, of the APC campaign council in the Kpiri-Kpiri ward took a tour across his ward to sensitize electorates on the need to vote massively for Nwifuru on Saturday.

He expressed confidence that Nwifuru would emerge victorious come 18th match, and consequently become the 4th democratically elected Governor of Ebonyi State.

A socio-political group, Ibom Collective, has called on the gubernatorial candidate of the Young Progressive Party (YPP) Senator Bassey Albert to withdraw from the governorship race to save the State from unnecessary ridicule.

Addressing a press conference in Uyo, the National Coordinator of the Group, Barrister Mfoniso Ukpong said the participation of the YPP governorship candidate in the race will bring Akwa Ibom State and her citizens ridicule and opprobrium. 

It will be recalled that Senator Bassey Albert was last December convicted of money laundering. Justice Agatha Okeke of the Federal High Court, Uyo sentenced him to 42 years imprisonment in a case brought against the Senator by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Senator Albert was subsequently granted bail from Ikot Ekpene Correctional Centre on health grounds. He has since continued his campaign to become the Governor of Akwa Ibom State. 

However the Ibom Collective thinks Senator Albert is not fit to be the Governor of Akwa Ibom State. According to Barrister Ukpong, "Section 182 (d) of the Constitution makes it impossible for any convict to become the governor and that is the Constitution of the land."

"Even without going into legal arguments, it is unacceptable for the great State of  Akwa Ibom to be governed by a convict. That is why we demand the immediate withdrawal of Senator Albert from the gubernatorial race. 

"Akwa Ibom is blessed with an array of smart and intelligent men and women who can provide sterling leadership to the State and it will be unconscionable for the State to give her mandate to a convicted felon to lead the rest of us. 

"What should be uppermost in the mind of our brother, Senator Bassey Albert is to clear his name of the charges of money laundering and permanently secure his freedom and not political power. 

"We urge Akwa Ibom citizens to be wise in choosing a successor to Governor Udom Emmanuel and not cast their lot with someone who is tainted by corruption. We deserve more and the very best amongst us," the group said.

Polycarp Sola-Abakaliki


Professor Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Gubernatorial Candidate in Ebonyi State has said Governor David Umahi and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are hunting him because of his ideals about governance.

Odoh who alleged that Governor David Umahi and the state APC are currently hunting to assassinate him said they are afraid to lose the election to him on the ground that the people are tired of APC in the State.

According to him, Umahi's wrong policies have brought untold hardship to the Ebonyi people in the last eight years.

Speaking on Arise news morning show today, Odoh said "They are hunting me because of my views and opinion about governance in Ebonyi State, in the last eight years, our poverty rose from 56 to 82 percent.

"While I was in government I constantly argued that there were policies that would escalate the poverty in the State and at some point, I felt my opinions were not yielding and I resigned from the government". he said.

Recall that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State has fingered Odoh as the mastermind of the murder of his monarch, Eze Igboke Ewa who was murdered at home by unidentified gunmen, and consequently led the police to declare him wanted, suspected as fingered.

Alleged Murder: The APGA Gubernatorial candidate has earlier issued a press statement disassociating
himself from the allegation, while maintaining that there was no way he could have masterminded the killing of his traditional ruler.

He recalled how the late Eze had sympathized with him when his convoy was attacked by unidentified gunmen at ntezi, Ishielu LGA, and two officers, one police inspector, and a civil defense officer lost their lives.

"After the election on Saturday, on Monday night I was watching the election results on channels tv, and some people ran into my compound and said that our traditional ruler has been murdered.

"I was shocked because none of us expected it, I called the CP and said we have an incident in my community, our Eze has just been murdered, he said he will send a team immediately,

"By 3 pm that same day, I got a letter inviting me from the police, the next 20 minutes I got a call that the CP wanted to see me, I called my lawyers and they raised concerns because in the past,

"Politicians who have a different opinion with government has been charged with murder Linus Okorie, the senatorial candidate for labor party was detained for 2 months over Chunk of chargers like this". Odoh explained.

Attacks on Odoh: According to Prof, he is the most attacked gubernatorial candidate in the Ebonyi Governorship race, as the past six months have been characterized by various assassination attempts on him.

"In the last six months, between October and March, my team and myself have been attacked a total of eight times in Ebonyi during our campaigns.

"Most of these attacks were orchestrated by government officials, in one of those attacks, two of my security officials were killed, one inspector of police and a civil defense officer". he said.

However, the former Secretary to the State Government (SSG) maintained that he would revitalize the economy, harness the land for agriculture, and deliver quality education as well as create an atmosphere of ease for businesses to thrive and consequently provide job opportunities for hundreds of thousands of people if elected Governor.











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Polycarp Sola-Abakaliki


The Coalition For Peter Obi, a support group for the presidential candidate of the Labor Party (LP), has declared support for the Gubernatorial Candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, ahead of the march 11th guber elections.

The CPO, comprising over 200 support groups across the 13 Local Government areas of the State, is headed by Dr. John Agha, who famously led the obidients movement in the State.

According to a press statement by the deputy director of Media and publicity of the State PDP campaign council, Mr. Moses Idika said the group has equally agreed to stand by Odii and canvas for people to vote for him come Saturday's elections.

"The People's Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Council Ebonyi State welcomes with open hands the declaration of support for our governorship candidate, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii by the Coalition for Peter Obi (CPO) ahead of the March 11, 2023 governorship election in the State.

"Recall that the CPO comprising over 200 support groups across all the 13 local governments of Ebonyi State, met in Abakaliki where they declared their support for Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, and also agreed to go ahead and canvas votes for him and stand by him in the forthcoming governorship election in the state," it stated.

Idika further noted that "In the last few weeks, several groups and prominent individuals including top government functionaries have been declaring their support for the PDP flag bearer".

It recalls that the Special Assistant to the Ebonyi State Governor on youth mobilization and drug control, Hon Mark Onu, the State Chairman of the Action Alliance (AA), Mr. Godwin Ugwu adopted Odii as their sole Gubernatorial Candidate before this moment.

He urged other well-meaning support groups in the State to identify with the PDP, and canvas for people to vote for the party's Gubernatorial Candidate on election day.

The Directorate of Volunteer, Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Support Group of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Ebonyi state campaign council, has reminded the Ebonyi state electorate that the gubernatorial elections of March 11 would shape the direction of their shared aspirations.

Hon. Darlington Onwe, the Director of the diectorate made the disclosure in a statement, noting that it was their constitutional opportunity to make informed choices and decisions.

Onwe said that these choices and decisions on March 11 would ultimately shape the direction and reality of their shared aspiration for better lives and a prosperous society.

"On March 11, 2023 all the eligible voting population of our state will be heading through a very crucial moment of decision making; and by this our collective and individual decisions.

"We shall determine who becomes our next governor and chief executive, as well as law makers for the next four years.

"This collective decision therefore should not be based on clannish sentiments but anchored on commitments and convictions we have about the right candidate.

"We have in the PDP Gubernatorial Candidate, Chief Ifeanyi Odii, the candidate with the best requisitions, competence, character, integrity and goodwill to partner with our fathers and mothers.

"He will also partner with our youths and children to collectively build our young state to an enviable heights,"

He noted that in all humility and total commitment to the state's shared aspiration to grow, develop and prosper as a state, Odii is humbly presented as a vessel of hope.

"He has been divinely prepared by providence for such a time as this as Ebonyi deserves peace, civility and a conducive environment to live and carry out daily activities.

"This should be without fear of intimidation, hounding, malicious killings and unwarranted continued civil provocations and restrictions to our fundamental rights as humans,".

"We must be discontent with the state of deficit in the knowledge economy of the state and together we can, as a people, chart our collective cause to greater growth, development and prosperity.

"In doing this, please let us remember that the manifesto of our party, the PDP is a promise of unlimited possibilities which will ultimately re-align the state to the original vision of our founding fathers.

"This is anchored on organic love for one other and genuine hope to make lives better for both present and the future generations.

"Therefore, we should massively thumbprint the Umbrella - the PDP, on the ballot papers on March 11, to liberate ourselves from the impending dooms,".

Polycarp Sola-Abakaliki

The People's Democratic Party, (PDP) in Ebonyi State has raised alarm over alleged security threats of violence, by the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the march 11th gubernatorial and state house of Assembly elections in the State.

The Director General of the party's campaign council, Mr. Austin Edeze who gave the assertions at a press conference in Abakaliki, said it became necessary to intimate the public on security issues arising sequel to the presidential and national assembly election held.

"Our experiences in the last two Saturdays elections are not news to anybody, particularly in Ebonyi State where the entire electoral process was marred with violence of an unprecedented level.

"The election ought to be a free and fair election but the experiences we had in a lot of the venues were nothing to write home about". he said.

Edeze disclosed that the APC in the State has allegedly procured weapons and illegally distributed them to thugs in a bid to disrupt the election and cause mayhem in favor of their Candidates.

"We are aware that they have amassed a lot of arms and ammunition, we are aware that APC shared Ak47 at ward levels, and we gathered reliably that they shared 4 arms per ward.

"If we are to multiply 4 by 171 wards, you can imagine how many Ak47 we have in the entire state, those distributed officially, and those acquired unofficially, if you add it up, it means we have not less than 1500 Ak 47 awaiting the coming elections, by APC". Edeze explained.

He reiterated his party's commitments to deliver its gubernatorial candidate, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii as well as others contesting elections while appealing to the security agencies to swing into action and recover the arms in circulation allegedly procured by the APC in the State.

"As far as we are concerned, His Excellency, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii shall come out victorious as Governor on 11th march 2023.

"We appeal to the security agencies to swing into action and mop up all these Arms which the APC has amassed to win this election.

"We shall employ All legal means to secure our votes and win the election." He added

The Action Alliance party (AA) in Ebonyi State has dumped its Gubernatorial Candidate, Engr Chukwuma Nwandugo, and adopted the Gubernatorial Candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii (AnyiChuks) as it's sole candidate ahead of march guber polls.

The chairman of the party in the State, Mr Godwin Ukwu said at a press conference in Abakaliki the State capital that the decision was in line with the party's aim to succeed in bringing good governance to the people.

He noted that the party's decision to adopt Odii does not affect other candidates contesting elections on its platform, while calling on their followers to vote PDP on March 11th guber polls.

"We have resolved as a party to adopt Chief Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii as the candidate of our great party in the march 11 election.

"This adoption and endorsement do not affect every other candidate of our party who his contesting in a different capacity, we are hereby asking our party's faithful to vote for PDP on the march 11 election". he said.

- Says Ebonyi govt. desperate to destroy my reputation


The All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA Governorship candidate for the March 11th, 2023 election in Ebonyi State, Professor Benard Ifeanyi Odoh has washed his hands off allegations by the Ebonyi State government that he masterminded the killing of his own Traditional ruler, Ezeogo Igboke Ewa by a yet-to-be-identified gunmen.

It will be recalled that Ezeogo Ewa who is the Traditional ruler of Omege Umuezeokoha autonomous community was murdered in cold blood at his palace at about 8:30 p.m on Monday, 27th February, 2023. The entire community has since been thrown into a mourning mood.

However, less than 12 hours after, the Ebonyi State government through it's Spokesperson, Barr. Uchenna Orji in reacting to the very sad incident accused opposition elements of being behind the killing.

The State's Publicity Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, one Simbad Chidi Ogbuatu in a Press release directly accused the former Secretary to Ebonyi State Government, Professor Odoh of being behind the murder of the Royal father.

Incensed by the frontal accusation, Odoh however debunked the allegations to newsmen in an interview in Abakaliki yesterday, stating that it was all in the desperate bid by the Umahi government to tarnish his hard-earned reputation.

Reacting to the demise of the Royal father, Odoh said, "It's hard that at a time I'm mourning the death of my traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Eze Igboke Ewa, the APC government is doing everything possible to destroy my reputation. Anybody who knows me knows my records. I have read what was written by one Ogbuatu Chidi Simbad. I have also read the one written by APC State working committee.

The fact is that I don't have any issue with HRH Eze Igboke Ewa. He is a father to me. He visited me two weeks ago after I was attacked at Ezillo. What's going on in Ebonyi today is a political witch-hunt. I have had a running battle with this government since I left as SSG and all of you are fully aware of it. I have been attacked seven times since we started our campaign, none was investigated including the one I lost two officers. I was attacked at Okposi two weeks ago where we have a video clips of APC people with branded APC vehicles who came to attack us. No investigation was made."

According to him, "Now, they have written a petition that I killed my traditional ruler, it's not true, it's unfounded and I don't understand how this came about. His Royal Highness is not a politician and he is contesting any election. I'm the one contesting for the Governorship seat of this state and those who are contesting with me are known, they are the APC and the PDP candidates. So, what's the point? So, it's purely a fabrication aimed at tarnishing my image by the APC government."

"They are doing everything possible to distract me, but of course, I refuse to be distracted, and I'm sure by the Grace of God, we will have victory. So, I have no hand in the killing of HRH Igboke Ewa. I don't know anything about the killing of Chief Ogboke Ewa. He is my traditional ruler and he is a father to me.

In fact, after I was attacked, he raised elders to curse those who did it. Before I took off for this political journey, I went and consulted him as my Eze and he blessed me. So, this is strange. I will seek legal redress against those accusing me of this.

They have to prove the matter beyond any reasonable doubt. It's strange that at a time the entire community is mourning, this is what's coming out from the APC government. This incident happened Monday night, I was the first to call the Commissioner of Police but the APC government ran to Radio to say it was an opposition party that did it.
They are not the spokesperson of the family or the spokesperson of the community. So, they are looking for a different thing", he further explained.

He said his Umuezeokoha autonomous community was facing the most turbulent time in it's history following the ugly incident.

"Ezeogo Igboke Ewa is one of our finest traditional rulers in our communities. He is over 80years now and so, for him to be murdered the way he was murdered last night is shocking to us and we are mourning his death.

So, I encourage the immediate family, the community and the Ezza nation to stay calm while we wait for the full investigation of this matter and appropriate action taken by either the government or security agencies. Let's be calm and hope that Justice will be served in the end", he concluded.

Polycarp Sola-Abakaliki

Election: Eleje denies stepping down for Umahi, expresses concern over INEC branding of ballot boxes





The senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for Ebonyi South Senatorial District, Chief Ifeanyi Eleje has denied stepping down for Governor David Umahi.

Eleje also expressed concerns over the branding of ballot boxes by the officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in his polling unit which he said would negatively affect the outcome of the elections.

"The election is going well, I just noted one omission, when you are canvassing and educating your voters, you tell them the colors of the ballot box,

"You tell them presidential is red, senatorial is black, and the house of representatives is green, but the arrangement seems to be quite different.

" I raised the issue to the INEC officials but the response is not enough because they labeled all the boxes black which would confuse the voters," he said.

In a chat with Journalists at his residence in Afikpo North Local Government Area of the state, the APGA senatorial candidate lambasted Governor Umahi for aspiring for the Senate position as he would not perform better than what he has performed as a Governor.

"How can a Governor aspire to become a senator, what would he do there, the energy level is different, he is descending and I am ascending, you cannot go from building flyovers to boreholes, I doubt if Umahi will ever do a town hall meeting when he becomes a senator.

He expressed confidence in the electoral process and commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) BVAS machine while anticipating a victorious outcome for him at the end of the election.

The Chairman of the Ebonyi All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council in Ohaozara LGA, Chief Chaka Nweze has said that the stakeholders of the party and the people are ready to deliver all candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming elections.

The Pioneer Secretary of the APC in Ebonyi said that the people have resolved to vote their worthy and impeccable son, Governor David Umahi as the Senator representing Ebonyi South senatorial district and Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru as the next governor of the state.

The Former Executive and subsequently Caretaker Chairman of Ohaozara LGA said the people have accepted to also vote other candidates of the party in all positions from the national to the state level due to the goodness of the party to the people.

" Umahi as the grand master of politics in the state, has brought his political acumen to bear and directing the party's affairs towards an eventual, overwhelming victory.

"He has encouraged us to embark on door to door campaigns and this is going on across the state.

"We are at home with the people and when we win massively at the elections, some naysayers would start formulating insinuations which is the trademark of perennial losers.

"They will not acknowledge our door to door efforts now but they are busy causing disturbances through thuggery and other violent acts, still yet, will be the ones to complain".

The Former Vice Chairman of the the state branch of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) said the the governor has made the campaigns easy for them with his wondrous infrastructural strides.

"Our successful tour of the 13 LGAs of the state had indeed opened our eyes to the wondrous works of the governor and this buttresses the assertion that you journalists are even under-reporting the achievements of this great man.

"Where ever the campaign team visited, there were monumental imprints that the people see, so there is no need for us to say much again.

"The Nigerian electorate had matured tremendously and gone are the days when politicians use empty promises to deceive the people,".

He noted that in Ohaozara LGA for instance, people are waiting for Saturday to show appreciation to the governor for what he has turned the council into.

"No one could had imagined that Uburu for instance, can be a London in Nigeria but this came to pass courtsey the governor.

"The other communities in Ohaozara such as Okposi, Ugwulangwu among others also felt tremendous developmental impact of the governor and they know that more will come if he represents the zone at the Senate.

"Every sane person in Afikpo South LGA (Edda) will be grateful to the governor for his ecological interventions in the area especially the Iyere bridge which can aptly described as the eight wonder of the world.

"This was a bridge which posed a death trap for indigenes of the area and travellers to Abia and other states who pass through it.

"Every practicable solution to fix the bridge seemed elusive until the wonder Engineer fixed it to the envy of great construction Giants such Julius Berger, Arab Contractors among others.

"He also intervened in the landslide challenge of the area no wonder Edda people are questioning whether the governor lineage cannot be traced there.

"His massive imprints in Ivo, Onicha and Afikpo North LGAs are monumental and the people know better than to waste their votes on empty promises and political gerrymandering,"

Nweze said that the people have imbibed Umahi's moral of fairness, equity and justice in ensuring that the peace of the state is sustained in line with the wishes of its founding fathers.

"We were all here in 2014/15 when the northern senatorial district supported that the southern district produces the governor in the spirit of fairness.

"The Izzi people in particular forsook their son who was a front runner in the gubernatorial poll to support Umahi in the spirit of equity which binds the state.

"Now that it right to return power to the north where it all began in this same spirit, the people are in unison with Umahi that it is time to show appreciation.

"It is the turn of Izzi people to be governor and Ohaozara LGA will demonstrate total support to Rt. Hon Francis Nwifuru on Saturday, March 11,"

WHY ENGR CHUKWUMA NWANDUGO OF ACTION ALLIANCE IS THE BEST CANDIDATE AND SHOULD BE VOTED AS THE NEXT GOVERNOR OF EBONYI STATE.

On Saturday, 11th March 2023, history will be made in Ebonyi State as Ebonyians and other residents of the state will once again go to the poll to elect a new Governor that will pilot the affairs of the state for the next four years.

Although this is not the first time the people of the state will gather to decide who governs the state, this year's election is definitely not going to be business as usual considering what we have all gone through in the hands of the outgoing administration in the state.

Of a truth, the last eight years have seen Ebonyians experienced bad governance, intimidation, hardship, marginalization and hunger in the midst of plenty which were direct opposites of what we all voted or bargained for in 2015.

Similarly, the people of the state have never been this clanishly divided.
Freedom of expression and association have long ceased to exist in Ebonyi.
Traditional institutions have lost their glories and confidence people repose in them because of undue political interference from government just as communal crises have destroyed the peace and unity that hitherto reigned in our communities.

That's not all, our education system and infrastructures in our public schools have collapsed completely the same way our hospitals have been left to suffer the pains of neglect owing to absence of manpower and basic facilities.

Today, while there are no teachers in our public primary and secondary schools, the state owned high institutions can no longer be afforded by ordinary Ebonyians because of frequent hike in fees by the State Government.

In fact, the unemployment rate in Ebonyi is quite alarming resulting from the State Government deliberate refusal to approve waiver for employment since 2015.

Indeed, the list is endless as virtually all sectors and sections of the state continue to suffer one form of neglect, abuse or the other.
Ebonyians and other residents of the state must rise and take their destinies in their hands by electing credible, tested and trusted person as their next Governor.

This is a very challenging moment for the state because our failure to get it right this time will amount to enslaving ourselves for the next four to eight years.

Ebonyi State now needs a man of impeccable character, a reliable personality, a leader and not a ruler as well as a democrat and not a dictator.

Our beloved state needs a Governor who can turn the fortunes of its mineral resources for the benefit of the masses and not the privileged few.
We should vote for a Governor that will facilitate the speedy development of the rural communities and restore the long lost glory of our traditional institutions.
We deserve a Governor that will revive our moribund education system, employ teachers and rebuild our schools; a man that will no longer erect only fences in our hospitals but who will equip them and recruit enough health personnel that will attend to the health care needs of our people.

We should all support a Governor that will unify the state and provide jobs for thousands of unemployed graduates roaming the street of our state; a Governor that will not run a government that will harras and intimidate people for exercising their rights at all times.

Although there are many Ebonyians contesting for the Governorship of the state, the candidate of Action Alliance, Engr Chukwuma Nwandugo remains the best.
He is a man of impeccable character, tested and trusted.

As Commissioner for Works and Transport in the last administration, Engr Nwandugo was reputed for his high level of transparency, hard work and accessibility.

Nwandugo did not only deliver on his mandate, he also facilitated the initiation and completion of many life-touching projects across the state.
They include the Ebonyi International Market, construction of Ebonyi State pipe production industry, unity schools and the unity bridges which were flagship projects of the last administration in the state among others.

Engr CHUKWUMA Nwandugo will offer employments to thousands of unemployed graduates roaming the streets of our state; he will wipe the tears of the state pensioners and civil servants by restoring leave allowances, promoting them as at when due and ensure that a better condition of service is provided for them.
Engr Nwandugo will definitely make Ebonyi work again if elected Governor.

Ebonyians, let's rise above clanish and party sentiments to vote the best candidate as our next Governor; a man who will not place his personal or family interest above our collective interest and that man is Engr Chukwuma Awuregu Nwandugo.

Vote Action Alliance for the peace and development of Ebonyi State.

Dr IfeanyiChukwuma Odii, Gubernatorial Candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi on Thursday, says he will priotize workers well-beings and human capital development if elected in the forthcoming general elections.

Odii made the promises during the Party's campaign rally in Ezza South local government area of the state.

The Governorship candidate said he was ready with his business expenses to encourage small scale enterprises and job creations.

"I enjoin you, my people to expect true transformation that will change the state from its current poverty level to prosperity as well as restoring the to its original name of agrarian state.

"As youth Governor, I will ensure that the youths are properly engage and such move crime will drastically reduced," he added.

Odii however, urged his supporters to get their Permanent Voters' Card (PVC) and ensure that vote for PDP candidates from top to bottom come the general polls.

Also speaking, Mr Emmanuel Nworie, Acting State Chairman of PDP said he was happy over the massive supporters in the area and urged to the party for better Ebonyi.

"Thank God we have overcome all sorts of intimidation from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Vote PDP, vote for AnyiChuks, who will guarantee good governance for the people," Nworie added.

Mr Igwe Edeze, director of PDP Campaign Council appealed to the people to vote for their party.

"Make sure you go out en mass on election day to deliver all PDP candidates from top to bottom," Edeze said.

Polycarp Sola-Abakaliki


The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Ebonyi State has called on the people to disregard youths allegedly rented by Governor David Umahi to protest over the disbandment of the Ebubeagu security outfit in the State by a federal high court.

Justice Riman Fatun of the Federal High Court Abakaliki division had declared the Southeast Security network, also known as “Ebubeagu” illegal in the State and consequently ordered the DSS to disarm them.

In a reaction, some youths allegedly rented by the State Government protested over the federal high court judgment and gathered at the Pa Ngele Oruta township stadium describing it as void.

Mr. Charles Otu, the director of Media and publicity of the Odohzia campaign council has urged the people of the State to disregard the actions of the youths as it would not stand.

in his words; "Rented youths of Akubaraoha Youths Assembly have converged in the stadium for the protest against the Ebubeagu disbandment verdict.

"Some youths rented by Umahi have proceeded to Federal High Court and the State House of Assembly to protest over Ebubeagu disbandment," he said.

Charles added that "they will retire in the State's House of Assembly where each protester is hoping to get an N1k.

Polycarp Sola

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PDP youth Leader decry spate of godfatherism in Ebonyi politics, urge members to vote candidate with good character


Mr Kelechi Igwe, Director of Youth Mobilisation, People's Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Council in Ebonyi has decried the spate of "Godfatherism" in the state politics, urging members to vote only candidates with good character for a better nation.

Igwe made the assertion in Abakaliki on Thursday, noting that voting such candidates became necessary in order to achieve full economy transformation as well as creating job for the youths.

He described Dr IfeanyiChukwuma Odii, the Gubernatorial candidate of PDP in the state as a "God sent" with capacity to rescue Ebonyi and boost it human capital.

Igwe noted that his members was ready to preach the gospel of peace before, during and after the forthcoming elections, urging them to keep the flag flying until victory is assured.

"Winning elections is not achieved by violence but adopting the dmocratic styles. PDP is known for peace and we, the youths are seeing the light shining already in Ebonyi, through our candidate, Odii come the general elections.

"We condemn the evil of godfatherism among politicians in the state and country at large. The youths are saying no to violence.

"No to hate speaches; canvas and vote but don't kill because elections will come and go," he added.

On campaign, the Director said his members have been working tirelessly at ensuring that Odii, the philanthropist take over the mantle of leadership in Ebonyi.

"The campaign have been peaceful and orderly. Our state deserve a youth Governor like Odii, popularly known as "AnyiChuks."

"We are not happy over the killings in some parts of the state by political jobber. We should know that Ebonyi and Nigeria at large does not practice one party system and no amount of harassment can stop us from electing the good leader.

"Ebonyi people and especially the youths has the right to vote for the candidate of their choice, which is Odii.

"We, therefore call on the Inspector-General of the Police (IGP) to do the needful to protect our lives during and after the elections.

"The youth and Ebonyi people has the right to vote who will lead them. No one can impose a party on us and we will not allow intimidation from other party's supporters," Igwe noted

.


Dr IfeanyiChukwuma Odii, popularly known as "AnyiChuks" said he would run an open Government and bring total transformation to the state if elected.

Odii made assertion on Wednesday at the party campaign tour of the 13 local government areas in Ezza south local government area of Ebonyi.

He assured that his Government would bring total transformation for the people and bring empowerment for the youths and women as well as industrialising the State.

"I will create policy that will reform the civil service and their well-beings.

"Vote for me for quality leadership. Cast your vote for someone with a clean hand and you will not regret it.

“If anyone, says that he wants to be your governor, ask him, what he or she has you done for the people; i challenge you to ask AnyiChuks today, what I have done now in order ro choose me.

“In the past 16 years, I have been able to touch lives through my foundation, "Ebele& AnyiChuks" that I operates with my wife; we have built schools and churches, and we have given scholarships to over 2, 000 indigents persons.

“Civil servants welfare will be my priority when I become your governor. My administration will stop street trading by our children in different cities across the country,” he added.

Barrister Ifeanyi Nworie, Acting Chairman of PDP in Ebonyi described AnyiChuks as a transparent and trustworthy candidate.

"This is the capacity candidate, who is fit for the position of governor, come May 29," he said.

He reaffirmed his commitment at ensuring that PDP emerges victorious at the general elections in Ebonyi.

"I urge you, my people to continue to give your upport to AnyiChuks as well as other candidates of PDP from top to bottom," Nworie added.

The Odohzia Ebonyi campaign council of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has called on the security agencies and the general public to hold Governor David Umahi responsible, should there be a breakdown of law and order at the APC campaign rally which is slated to hold today at the Ezza North local government area of the State.

Umahi was at the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign yesterday at Ugbodo, Ebonyi local government area of the State where he allegedly "raised a false alarm that the APGA Governorship candidate, in Ebonyi 2023 election plans to attack him and the APC team, during it's proposed rally today in Ezza North Local Government Area of the State".

The Director of Media and publicity, Odohzia Ebonyi campaign council, Mr. Charles Otu who made this known in a press statement said the people should ignore the Governor's utterances as it was falsely made.

It also refuted claims by the Governor that the APGA Gubernatorial candidate in the State, Professor Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh had concluded plans to attack the APC campaign team, since the event is to hold in his hometown.


"The attention of the Odohzhia Ebonyi Campaign council has been drawn to a video making the rounds in Social media platforms, where the Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. David Umahi raised a false alarm that the APGA Governorship candidate, in the Ebonyi 2023 election plans to attack him and the APC team, during its proposed rally today in the Ezza North Local Government Area of the State.

"Umahi, who had made the hasty and fallacious claims yesterday during an APC rally at Ugbodo, the council headquarters of Ebonyi Local Government Area, among other vituperative utterances customary of his person and style and undignifying of the high office he occupies challenged our peaceful and peace-loving Governorship candidate, Odoh to dare him".

It would be recalled that the APGA Gubernatorial candidate had escaped an assassination attempt on him, where his driver and one other person lost their lives, and others were injured.

"This is coming even as we are still in shock and mourning two officers in our campaign team, who we lost during an assassination attempt on our Governorship candidate from gunmen suspected to be members of Ebubeagu militia at Okpoto in Ishielu Local Government Area of the State.

"Knowing the Governor's modus of always raising false alarms and exposing his plans whenever he's 'high' in public, anyone who carefully heard or watched Umahi speak during the said rally must be suspect that he must have a game up his sleeves in his proposed rally in Ezza North LGA today, where incidentally our guber candidate hails from.

"Besides, we have also gotten hints from good authorities that the APC campaign train is allegedly planning to set themselves against themselves as they did during its rally in Isu, Onicha Local Government Area and then heap the blames on the peace-loving Odohzia Ebonyi Campaign council which has been going about its campaigns with utmost modesty and decorum.

"It is therefore our wisdom to draw the attention of security agencies, the media, Nigerians, and the rest of the world to the evil plots allegedly being hatched by the APC-led government in Ebonyi State to probably cause monumental violence and wreck havoc in the home Local Government Area of our Governorship candidate. We are still saddened and yet in a mourning mood over the loss of our gallant officers and those still receiving treatments in the hospital.

"Again, we reiterate that APGA, Ebonyi State Chapter, and indeed, the Odohzhia Campaign council has no plans whatsoever either now or in the future to attack any candidate who is going about his peaceful electioneering campaigns!" it stated.

Engr Henry Ude, popularly known as "Ajim Best" a chieftain of the Labour Party in Ebonyi has defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

This is contained in a statement on Wednesday in Abakaliki signed by Chief Abia Onyike, the Director, Media and Publicity, PDP Governorship Campaign Council.

Ude, one of the founding fathers of Ebonyi and an LP stalwart in Okposi, Ohaozara Local Government Area of the state confirmed the development when he spoke with journalists in Abakaliki.

He said his decision to return back to his former party was to help in the struggle to free the state from political quagmire.

Ude, a founding members of PDP was famous for singlehandedly sponsoring media advertisements during the struggle for the creation of Ebony in the early 1990s by Military Head of State, late Gen. Sani Abacha.

He said that he was convinced that the PDP had the capacity to restore peace, security and freedom to the people in the state.

“I am in PDP now to join the rest of our patriotic forces who are yearning for freedom of movement, freedom of association and freedom for liberty and progress,” Ude said.

He enjoined the people to join the new political liberation movement led by the state PDP governorship candidate, Dr Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii to wrestle power from the APC led administration in the state.

“I am assuring Ebonyi people that it is feasible, achievable and possible for PDP to reclaim its stolen mandate in order to reposition the state through good governance to cater for the welfare and well-being of the masses.

“The secret of life is, ‘have no fear’ when you are being pushed and you continue to run, you will never stop running. With the help of Almighty God, Ebonyi will be free again,” he said.

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi has reiterated its readiness to win the Gubernatorial position in the state come the general elections, urging supporters to continue the preaching of gospel of peace.

The PDP, however urged the APC in Ebonyi to desist from the killings and maiming of citizens in the state, but engage on issue based campaign for interest of peace ahead of of the general elections.

Mr Igwe Edeze, Director General, Ebonyi PDP Campaign Organisation told journalists in Abakaliki on Tuesday, that the PDP was determined to liberate the state from political rascality and enthrone truly progressive governance.

"Nothing can stop the party from leveraging on the constitution of Nigeria and democratic norms and practices to earn expected victory based on the confidence Ebonyi people have placed on the PDP.

"We, therefore advice the APC in the state to stop all divisive and inciting comments capable of overheating the polity as the Campaigns for the 2023 general elections gathers momentum.

"Promoting divisions or harping on clannish and artificial differences between administrative zones and peoples in the state.

"We urge the parties to engage in issue-based campaigns. They should advertise their development projects and create a favourable atmosphere for peaceful campaigns and electioneering to take place.

"With our Gubernatorial candidate, Dr IfeanyiChukwuma Odii, PDP is ready to ensure the change that the people need in Ebonyi.

"Odii symbolises a valuable political capital with deep philosophical and ideological endowments. He is therefore an indispensable asset to the state.

"His entry into the race affords us the opportunity to key into his generational political re-engineering of our people and the polity," he explained.

Edeze enjoined the people of Ebonyi to jettison any other consideration and focus on delivering the governorship candidate of the PDP in the state.

"We cannot afford to do otherwise at this critical time in our history as a people in Ebonyi.

"With Odii, We witness a reassurance of democratic values, infrastructural development, security, and above all, a Godfearing leadership that will be responsive and responsible to ensuring good governance.

"We have a duty to prove that our party is the dominant party in Ebonyi State. There is no controversy to the fact that Ebonyi is the headquarters of PDP in South East," the Director General added.

Our correspondent reports that Odii is a stellar business icon, accomplished social enterpreneur and renowned philanthropist