Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has declared that he faces no strong opponent as he seeks re-election in the 2027 general elections. The governor made this assertion on Saturday while speaking to journalists at his hometown, Oferekpe Agbaja, in Izzi Local Government Area, shortly after casting his vote in the local government council polls held across the state.
Governor Nwifuru, who is the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi, said his confidence is rooted in his widespread acceptability among the people and the numerous developmental projects his administration has executed. He noted that these achievements have significantly impacted the lives of the populace, making his re-election bid a straightforward affair.
Governor Acknowledges Potential Rivals Despite Confidence
Despite his assertion of having no strong opponent, Governor Nwifuru acknowledged that other political parties are expected to field candidates for various positions in the upcoming elections. He said, “I am the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi, but you should expect other political parties to field candidates for various positions in the elections.”
The governor further remarked that opponents, even if not strong, serve a useful purpose in any electoral contest. “One should, however, expect to meet opponents who are reasonable, competitive and ready to expose your lapses. An opponent is supposed to teach you what you don’t know because he will not hide your lapses,” he explained.
Council Polls Conducted Peacefully, Says Governor
Governor Nwifuru attributed the peaceful and orderly conduct of the council polls to the level playing field provided to all participants. He said the APC allowed the people to freely choose their leaders at the grassroots level, which he believes contributed to the massive support the party received.
“The APC allowed the people to choose who will lead them at the grassroots, and that is why the support is massive. I believe in the candidates of our party and their abilities to deliver the goods to the people who voted them. I believe other parties presented their own candidates, and that is why we are having a seamless process,” he said.
Governor Seeks People’s Endorsement, Not Party Support
Governor Nwifuru also made it clear that he has no intention of seeking endorsements from other political parties for the gubernatorial election, stating that such a move is unnecessary. He emphasised that his focus remains on securing the endorsement of the people, which he considers the most legitimate form of support.
“My desire is for the people to endorse me because that is the right thing. My administration has been working for the people and will continue doing so,” he said. The governor’s remarks come as the state prepares for the 2027 general elections, with his administration’s record expected to be a central theme in the campaign.
