Politics
PDP convention: Wike installs new NWC in Abuja
The party unveiled 19 new members of its National Working Committee at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja in a move aimed at repositioning the opposition platform.
The PDP Constitution (2017, as amended) provides for a 19-member NWC at the national level, outlining its structure and responsibilities within the party’s leadership framework.
According to Part VIII of the Constitution, the National Working Committee comprises the National Chairman, two Deputy National Chairmen, the National Secretary and Deputy National Secretary, the National Treasurer, Financial Secretary, Organising Secretary, Publicity Secretary, Auditor, Legal Adviser, Woman Leader, Youth Leader, as well as the National Vice Chairmen.
The Wike-backed PDP adopted a consensus approach in selecting members of the National Working Committee, who will oversee the party’s affairs for the next four years.
The NWC members, along with other national positions and their respective consensus candidates, were affirmed by over 2,500 delegates as follows: National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed; Deputy National Chairman (South), Aaron Chukwuemeka; Deputy National Chairman (North), Yusufu Akirikwen (SAN); National Secretary, Anyanwu Samuel; Deputy National Secretary, Kolawale Olabisi; National Treasurer, Odeyemei Oladiran; and Deputy National Treasurer, Lado Marke.
Other positions are National Financial Secretary, Eyim Henry; Deputy National Financial Secretary, Dr Grema Kyari; National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature; and Deputy National Organising Secretary, Efere Augustine.
Others are National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed; Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Egwu Chidiebere; National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN); Deputy National Legal Adviser, Aloysius Uba; National Auditor, Osuoha Donatus; Deputy National Auditor, Dr Adaba Yatu; National Youth Leader, Ibrahim Aboki; and Deputy National Youth Leader, Momoh Bashir.
The positions of the National Women Leader went to Prof Ogunshe Adedayo, while the Deputy National Women Leader is Hauwa Shinge.
Attendance at the convention, however, reflected a mix of alignment and division, as delegates from Benue, Ekiti, and Ogun States took part in the exercise, while their counterparts from Edo State and others boycotted the Convention.
In Sokoto State, the crisis within the party deepened, with the pro- acting National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature group openly defying the boycott directive and participating in the convention, further highlighting internal fractures.
Amid the tensions, key party leaders, including Chairman of the Convention Organising Committee, former Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, newly elected Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammeh, PDP National Leader, Wike, and former Senate President, Bukola Saraki and former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, among others, called for reconciliation and unity, stressing the need to close ranks and rebuild trust ahead of future political contests.
The Secretary of the PDP in Ogun State, Dr Sunday Solarin, confirmed on Sunday that some members of the opposition party were present at the national convention.
He noted that while the state chairman and party leader, Abayomi Tella and Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu, are also in Abuja, he could not confirm whether they would attend the national congress being organised by the former governor of Rivers State.
Asked about state delegate participation in the Abuja Congress, Solarin said, “Some members, believing Wike controls the party, have gone to Abuja for the convention. Others, like myself, who support the Turaki-led side, have stayed away.”
Solarin added that the party chairman, Abayomi Tella, and Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu, the party’s 2023 governorship candidate, were present at the convention.
He stated that Tella and Adebutu were in Abuja and mentioned that many party members had also arrived recently.
“So, for anybody aware that I was in Abuja yesterday, could unknowingly believe that I was there to attend the convention, whereas I am right now in my residence at Ogere Remo.
“Let me also mention that both sides are also carrying on with the reconciliation efforts that are being initiated by the leadership of both sides. So, I can also affirm that the reconciliation process has not been dismantled.
“And definitely, these party leaders must be around to see through this reconciliation exercise. The leadership must be on the ground to manage the two tendencies, that is, those who believe in Wike-led leadership and those of us on the side of Turaki”.
Also, the PDP bloc in Ekiti State, led by former Governor Ayo Fayose, joined other delegates in participating in the National Convention.
The state Chairman of the PDP bloc, Lanre Omolase, who said the convention was real, said, “I am already at the venue of the convention in Abuja. We are here, the convention is holding, this is where the PDP is”.
Omolase had last week stated that his group was the genuine PDP in the state, saying, “The authentic PDP members at all levels are here with the Abduraham Mohammed-led National Caretaker Committee.”
Similarly, delegates from Benue State, led by former Governor Samuel Ortom, attended the convention.
The media consultant for the party in the state, Bemgba Iortyom, disclosed this in a telephone chat with our correspondent on Sunday.
He said, “We are currently in Abuja for the ongoing party national convention. We will talk later.
Also, the Peoples Democratic Party in Kebbi State has expressed support for the national convention. The State Secretary, Abubakar Bawa Kalgo, confirmed that the state chapter fully participated in the Abuja gathering, with all delegates mobilised for the two-day exercise.
“We are satisfied with the arrangements… and all our delegates participated fully,” Kalgo said.
Also, a chieftain of the PDP in Oyo State and former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Hazeem Gbolarumi, confirmed that the Wike-led convention was well attended by delegates across the country.
Gbolarumi, who spoke at the convention venue on Sunday, declared that the party’s convention was well attended by the party’s delegates across the country.
He said, “The convention is simply fantastic. All the states are well represented. Even Sule Lamidi has just spoken at the convention. And Senator Bukola Saraki and some former state governors are here. There are just too many, and even some people were disallowed to enter the venue of the convention since their chairmen and other key stakeholders had been represented. We couldn’t just accommodate everyone.”
However, the Chairman of the Gombe State chapter of the PDP, Maj. Gen Mamman Kwaskebe (retd.) stated that the state’s delegates are not present at the convention due to unresolved issues.
He did not disclose the specifics of the challenges but maintained that they would not attend until the matters are resolved.
“I’m in Abuja, not at the convention. It is ongoing, quite all right, but technically, there are some challenges. Until they are identified and resolved, we will not be present. I will get back to you,” he said.
Also, the Edo State Chairman of the PDP, Tony Aziegbemi, stated that the state chapter did not attend the convention, describing it as illegal and urging other states to stay away.
He noted that there is a pending case before the Supreme Court yet to be determined, adding that holding a convention at this time would amount to an affront to the law.
He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure that impostors are not part of the gathering and to verify that the list of delegates presented aligns with its records.
The chairman said, “The convention by the Wike faction is illegal as there is a case at the Supreme Court which is yet to be decided.
“I will urge the state chairman and their members not to attend the convention because it is illegal. INEC should also monitor those being paraded as delegates. They are impostors, and the list being used might not tally with the one with INEC.”
Meanwhile, a new division has emerged within the party in Sokoto State, as a pro-Bature group openly rejected the position of the state chapter and confirmed its participation in the controversial national convention in Abuja.
The group, led by Chairman Abubakar Danmafara, dismissed claims by the state leadership that Sokoto PDP would boycott the convention, describing the assertion as false, misleading, and a misrepresentation of the facts.
He stated, “We wish to categorically state that Sokoto State remains an integral part of the PDP and cannot be excluded from such a crucial national exercise,” Danmafara said in a press statement issued Sunday.
“The attempt to distance the state from the convention is not only unfortunate, but also misleading.”
In a new development, the Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has initiated steps to address the lingering crisis within the PDP in the state.
Mohammed on Sunday emerged as chairman of a consultative committee established to chart a path forward for the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The development followed an emergency, expanded closed-door meeting of key stakeholders convened by the governor at the Bauchi Government House, amid concerns over internal divisions and the approaching deadline for candidate submissions.
The high-level meeting, attended by party leaders, underscored the urgency of the discussions.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Bauchi State PDP Chairman Samaila Burga said stakeholders unanimously agreed to set up a reconciliation and strategy committee.
According to him, “The committee, under the leadership of Governor Bala Mohammed, has been mandated to, within one week, resolve all lingering disputes and position the party for smooth participation in the 2027 general elections.”
Speaking in Abuja, former Abia State Governor and Chairman of the 2026 National Convention Planning and Organising Committee, Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, has said that reconciliation within the PDP is not optional, but fundamental to the party’s future.
Ikpeazu made this remark while addressing members at the PDP 2026 National Elective Convention on Sunday, where he called on party faithful to place a premium on unity and restore trust as they prepare for forthcoming political contests.
He stated, “The last time our party assembled at a national convention to elect members of the National Working Committee was in October 2021 at Eagle Square here in Abuja. Since that moment, our great party has traversed a challenging and at times turbulent path.
“The tenure of that National Working Committee witnessed internal leadership strains and institutional tests at the centre. These developments ultimately culminated in the decisive intervention of the National Executive Committee at its 104th meeting in December 2025, where a National Caretaker Working Committee was constituted in the overriding interest of stability and continuity.
“Today, however, we stand once again at the threshold of history. We are gathered under the compelling and forward-looking theme of this Convention: Inclusiveness, Unity, and Renewal. This theme is not a mere slogan; it is a strategic imperative. It speaks directly to our present reality and defines the pathway to our collective future. It calls on us to close ranks, rebuild trust, and reposition our party as the foremost platform for democratic governance in Nigeria.”
He said the moment goes beyond procedure, describing it as a deeply symbolic democratic milestone that reflects renewal and a renewed commitment to justice, equity, unity, and a people-focused party.
The ex-governor added, “We may have lost some elections, but this vital credential still resides with us, and we need to guard it with even greater zeal at our disposal.
‘’It is because of your faith and steadfastness in this party that we must now resolve: from this convention, we shall rebuild, rebrand, and reposition the PDP into a stronger, more cohesive, and forward-looking political force, ready to reclaim its leadership role in the governance of our dear country.
“To the National Working Committee that will emerge from this Convention, I congratulate you in advance. But let me also sound a note of clear responsibility: the task before you is onerous, urgent, and unavoidable. The duty of genuine reconciliation within our party is not optional; it is fundamental.
“Your work begins immediately. You must act decisively to heal divisions, rebuild trust, restore discipline, and strengthen internal democracy across all levels of the party structure. Let the theme of this Convention—Inclusiveness, Unity, and Renewal—serve not merely as a guiding principle, but as a binding commitment.”
The newly elected National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, declared the opening of the party’s National Convention, describing it as a moment of inclusiveness, unity, and renewal.
He noted the party’s recent internal disputes and said the convention is focused on restoring order and internal stability rather than rivalry.
Mohammed stated that recent court rulings should not be seen as a win for any side, but a call to uphold due process and constitutional order.
He urged members to prioritise the party over personal ambition and embrace unity and discipline. He said the convention should mark a fresh start, positioning the PDP to better address national challenges.
On his part, Saraki urged other party members who are still undecided to come on board, noting that the presence of the Independent National Electoral Commission validates the gathering.
“As I walked in, not only seeing the people but also the presence of the Independent National Electoral Commission, I say this because some of us have always advocated for our mission to ensure that we are not alone and that we create a platform in the PDP for those who wish to aspire for any ambition come 2027.
“To do that, we must ensure the validity of our processes. So, we are here now at a convention that has the validity of INEC in this process.
“Today is a great opportunity for us in the PDP to chart our way forward, because we now have a party that can present candidates in the 2027 election. We now have a party that people can no longer ridicule. Now we know the PDP will be on the ballot paper in 2027. This is a great achievement. Months ago, many did not think this was possible.”
Saraki, who affirmed that the PDP was here to stay, admonished the new NWC members to honour the sacrifices made and to promote fairness and unity.
He stated, “As I was making my way here, I spoke with some people and urged them to join us. If I see any further confirmation of legality, I will be part of this process from tomorrow. I call on those still concerned about legality and validity to join us. Let us come together and hold ourselves as one family. It is not about individual interests but the collective responsibility of this great party to this great country.
“PDP has come to stay, and I have come to stay, and insha Allah, not only to stay but to be victorious in the 2027 elections. I also appeal to those who will be elected today to honour the sacrifices made and ensure fairness to all, providing a level playing field for all aspirants.
‘’Let us come together and lead the PDP to where it belongs—in the democracy and governance of this great country.”
Wike, in his speech, commended party members for their efforts in restoring the main opposition party to its rightful owners—the people, stressing that this reflects the party’s founding principles.
“It is gladdening to note at this juncture that, throughout this period of morbid and avoidable crisis, our members at the grassroots across all the wards in this country remained largely stable in their dedication to the party. They insisted that they would never leave the party that has, over the years, contributed in no small measure to their welfare and upliftment on the one hand and the development of the society at large.
“So, while they watched the ugly spectre of the infidelity of opportunistic elites that were gyrating from one party to another in the pursuit of selfish purposes, they remained faithful to the party, praying fervently for a renaissance to come. Their prayers have been answered by God, and that renaissance is here.
“Together with all and sundry across all the nooks and crannies of our country, we shall rebuild our party in such a way that would meet the yearnings and aspirations of the generality of Nigerians.”
The FCT minister further noted that the party’s future must be built on inclusiveness, unity, and renewal, and called on all members, past and present, to come together and rebuild for the common good.
He continued, “No one would be excluded, and everyone would be given an equal opportunity to serve in unity and love. We must all pledge to a renewal of our commitment, loyalty, and dedication to the party. We must all sacrificially commit to a new era of purpose and collective vision predicated on the core values enunciated by our founding fathers.
“This party was built fundamentally, as a People’s Party, and we must therefore, moving forward, create legitimate channels through which the people’s voices must be heard and upheld.”
The PDP had split into two rival factions after nearly three years of internal crisis. Following the development, the governors’ bloc, supported by Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, held a convention in Ibadan on November 16, where Tanimu Turaki (SAN) and others were elected into the National Working Committee.
In response, the faction aligned with Wike set up a 13-member National Caretaker Working Committee in December, appointing Abdulrahman Mohammed as Acting National Chairman and Samuel Anyanwu as Acting National Secretary to manage the party for 60 days pending a substantive convention.
On February 12, the Court of Appeal heard consolidated suits on the leadership crisis and, on March 9, upheld an earlier ruling of the Federal High Court, declaring the Ibadan convention invalid for breaching the Electoral Act, the Constitution, and the PDP constitution.
In a separate ruling, another Court of Appeal panel led by Justice Biobele Georgewill advised all parties to pursue an amicable resolution.
Although both factions initially signalled willingness to reconcile after the March 9 judgment, persistent disagreements, particularly among the governors, suggested the process had stalled. However, Turaki later confirmed that talks had resumed.
In a motion dated March 27, 2026, the party, its National Working Committee, National Executive Committee, and the governors’ bloc approached the Supreme Court of Nigeria seeking a stay of execution of the appellate judgment, including a request to halt the Wike-backed convention scheduled for March 29 and 30.
Despite this, the Wike bloc mobilised about 2,500 delegates to Abuja to affirm 19 party leaders as members of the NWC.
…Denies Government Involvement in NDC Airport, Secretariat Incidents
…Says Mbah’s Performance Sufficient to Secure Re-election in Free, Fair Polls
The Enugu State Government has alleged that some opposition elements are plotting to bring armed thugs and bandits into the state to create panic and portray Enugu as insecure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, made the allegation on Sunday during a press conference at the Government House, Enugu, where he addressed two incidents involving the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport and the party’s state secretariat in Enugu on Saturday.
Onyia denied any involvement of the state government or Governor Peter Mbah’s Chief Security Officer, Ifeanyi Osondu, in either incident. He described the airport confrontation as a matter between the NDC and federal authorities, while noting that the shooting incident at the party’s secretariat was under police investigation.
According to the SSG, the government’s preliminary findings indicated that the airport incident followed the NDC’s attempt to hold what it described as a “Grand Statewide Campaign Flag-off 2026” at the facility without obtaining the necessary approval from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
He said the party had publicised the event and invited members and supporters to attend, including through the Facebook page of its governorship candidate in the state.
Onyia explained that the police had advised the party to obtain FAAN’s approval before security personnel could be deployed to the airport for the event.
“Further findings, however, revealed that the NDC did not secure the approval of FAAN to host a grand statewide rally at its facility. Security agencies, therefore, advised the organisers of the rally to rethink it,” he said.
The SSG alleged that the party proceeded to mobilise its members to the airport and attempted to gain entry into the facility, resulting in a confrontation with airport authorities.
He said security agencies intervened to disperse what he described as “riotous” party members and restore order around the airport, which he characterised as a strategic national asset.
Onyia added that the state government’s account was consistent with a statement issued by the Enugu State Police Command on Sunday.
NDC Secretariat Shooting
Addressing the shooting incident at the NDC state secretariat in the GRA area of Enugu, Onyia said security reports had confirmed that a violent clash occurred at the party’s office and that the police were investigating the matter.
He disputed reports of fatalities, claiming that the government’s preliminary findings indicated that no one had died in the incident.
According to him, a 43-year-old man, identified as Ifeanyi Nworie, sustained a gunshot wound and was taken to the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Park Lane, where he was stabilised before being transferred to the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu, for further examination.
“We can, therefore, authoritatively report that there were no deaths as falsely claimed by some reports and NDC leaders,” he said.
Onyia also rejected allegations that the governor’s Chief Security Officer was present at the party secretariat and supervised the shooting. He maintained that Osondu was with Governor Mbah at the Teachers Grassroots Movement mega rally at Okpara Square, Enugu, when the incident occurred.
The SSG further criticised the reported observance of a minute’s silence for an individual he claimed was still alive, describing it as an attempt to mislead the public for political gain.
Reaffirming the government’s position, Onyia said Mbah had sworn to protect the lives and property of all residents, irrespective of their religious beliefs or political affiliations.
He said the administration’s ambition to grow Enugu into a $30 billion economy and make it a preferred destination for investment, business, tourism and living depended significantly on sustained peace and security.
According to him, this commitment informed the government’s substantial investments in security infrastructure and operations over the past three years.
“Consequently, the Enugu State Government strongly condemns in its entirety any form of violence, including politically induced violence in the state. We welcome healthy debate and freedom of association and peaceful assembly,” he said.
He urged political parties and their candidates to exercise restraint and embrace issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections.
The SSG maintained that democratic rights should be exercised responsibly, arguing that political parties ought to serve as models of decorum and integrity.
He questioned the decision to announce a statewide campaign flag-off at the airport without obtaining approval from the relevant authorities.
“Without holding brief for FAAN, is it not sheer rascality to attempt to hold a ‘Grand Statewide Campaign Flag-off 2026’ of the NDC at the airport as publicised by the party and its gubernatorial candidate, especially without the approval by the appropriate authorities?
“Is it not equally gross mischief and a sign of political desperation to hold a minute’s silence for a living person, just to mislead the public for political traction?” he queried.
Government Alleges Opposition Plot
Onyia accused opposition elements in Enugu of attempting to create the impression that the state was unsafe and that the government was intolerant of opposing political parties.
He alleged that some opposition groups had been attributing internal disagreements and violent clashes to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
Citing an incident at Obuofia in Nkanu West Local Government Area on September 12, 2026, the SSG claimed that investigations had identified the alleged perpetrators and that the police were prosecuting them.
He described the opposition as factionalised and alleged that some of its members were attempting to draw the state government into controversies to gain political relevance.
Onyia reiterated the government’s allegation that some opposition elements were plotting to bring armed thugs and bandits into Enugu to create panic and undermine public confidence in the state’s security ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We, however, make bold to say that the peace and security we have achieved in Enugu State in the last three years, and at huge material costs and sacrifices by our security agents, are non-negotiable and irreversible,” he said.
The SSG said the Mbah administration remained committed to protecting citizens’ democratic rights, including the freedom to campaign for and vote for candidates of their choice in the forthcoming elections.
He described the right of residents to elect their leaders through free, fair and credible polls as fundamental to the state’s democratic development.
Mbah’s Performance and 2027 Re-election Bid
Onyia expressed confidence that Mbah would secure a second term, citing what he described as the governor’s performance and delivery on campaign promises.
He said the administration had no reason to resort to desperate measures, insisting that its record in office would form the basis of its appeal to voters for a renewed mandate.
“Indeed, these inalienable rights of Ndi Enugu to elect their leaders in free, fair and credible polls are our surest hope for re-election come 2027,” he said.
Politics
2027: Over 30,000 Enugu Teachers Endorse Mbah, Tinubu, Cite Welfare Improvements, Increased Education Funding
Teachers across public and private schools in Enugu State have endorsed Governor Peter Mbah for a second term in office, citing improved welfare, timely promotions, increased education funding and other interventions by his administration.
The teachers also endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose economic reforms, according to Mbah, had made more resources available to states to undertake major projects, including the construction of over 267 Smart Green Schools across the 260 political wards of Enugu State.
The teachers declared their support through a rally organised by the Teachers for Grassroots Movement (TGM), with over 12,000 members marching through parts of Enugu metropolis before converging on Okpara Square, Enugu, on Saturday for the endorsement event.
Speaking at the rally, the Chairman of the Enugu State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Theophilus Odo, described Mbah as a Godsend, highlighting measures taken by the governor to address longstanding challenges in the state’s education sector.
“On behalf of the NUT, I want to say that we are happy today because God has given us a caring governor, Peter Mbah,” Odo said.
He noted that Mbah had supported the domestication of harmonised retirement benefits for teachers even before becoming governor.
“The building of over 260 Smart Green Schools is a very positive change. Our teachers and children can now compete favourably with their peers in other places,” he said.
Odo added that the administration had commenced the recruitment of thousands of teachers while investing in professional development through symposiums and other training programmes.
“There are no outstanding promotions, and our salaries are coming at the appropriate time.
“So, we, the teachers, are endorsing our governor for a second term in office. The votes of our teachers are only for Governor Mbah,” he declared.
In his remarks, the Enugu State Chairman of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Nelson Agu, said private school teachers were participating in such a rally in the state for the first time to show support for what he described as Mbah’s revolution in the education sector.
He said the introduction of Smart Green Schools had challenged private school proprietors to upgrade their facilities and improve educational standards.
“When you came and started the idea of over 260 Smart Green Schools, we thought we were out of service. But we went and upgraded our schools to meet the required standards,” Agu said.
He also commended the administration’s allocation of 33 per cent of the state budget to education for three consecutive years.
“Importantly, the idea of allocating 33 per cent of the budget to the education sector for three consecutive years is something to laud your administration for,” he added.
The Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Enugu State, Simeon Akaeme, said the Mbah administration had restored the dignity of teachers and improved their living conditions through investments in infrastructure and social services.
Similarly, the Director-General of TGM, Dr. Nwakaego Aja, described education as a pathway to liberation, self-reliance and economic development, particularly amid the systemic challenges confronting the country.
Aja assured the governor of the support of the movement’s over 30,000 members, saying the administration’s education reforms had demonstrated the role of education in driving economic growth.
“Through experiential learning and innovation, you brought answers to the quest by our nationalists, elevating education to a catalyst for economic development,” she said.
“We, the teachers, are not ingrates. We see what you are doing. You promised disruptive innovation, and you have delivered disruptive innovation. That is why we are here.
“We promise you this: we will take your good news to the communities, to the staff rooms, to every market, to every polling unit, and we will deliver. Our vote is for the All Progressives Congress (APC) from bottom to top,” she added.
The Enugu State Commissioner for Education and patron of TGM, Prof. Ndubueze Mbah, described the endorsement by thousands of teachers as an indication of the broader support expected for Governor Mbah and President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on behalf of the teachers, he thanked the governor for prioritising education and investing resources in creating better opportunities for children across the state.
“On behalf of every teacher gathered here today, I have one message, and that is to thank you for believing and investing in the vision that it is through education that Enugu State will attain greater heights. You have committed so many resources to giving every Enugu child a future,” he said.
In his address, Governor Mbah said the endorsement was significant beyond the 2027 elections, stressing that the success of his administration’s development agenda depended largely on teachers and the education system.
“Today’s endorsement carries a particular significance, and that is because everything we do, all the promises we have made, all the projections we have made — growing Enugu’s economy, becoming one of the top three states in terms of GDP, making Enugu State the number one state in terms of investment, business, living and tourism — are in the hands of our teachers,” he said.
The governor said his administration’s investments in education included the construction of over 7,000 classrooms, the provision of 25,000 desktop computers and more than 5,000 tablets, as well as free feeding and uniforms for pupils.
He added that the government was focused on transforming the state’s education system rather than merely providing infrastructure and learning materials.
“For us, it is about transformation — transforming an education system. And that whole transformation, whether we fail or succeed, would lie largely in your hands,” Mbah said.
He expressed appreciation for teachers’ contributions to the state’s development, acknowledging the challenges they face in educating children and preparing them for the future.
“That is why, when I say that I see you and I value you, it comes from the depths of my heart because I understand what you go through to inculcate this knowledge into our children so that we can become that great state. So, we love you and appreciate you dearly,” he added.
The governor’s wife, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, represented by the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, described the endorsement as a strong affirmation of an administration that had placed education at the centre of its development agenda.
The rally was attended by senior government officials, political and community leaders, and other stakeholders.
…Says 2027 Election Will End Politics of Godfatherism, Privilege in Ebonyi
BY PETRUS OBI
Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, witnessed an extraordinary political reception as thousands of enthusiastic supporters trooped out to welcome the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Chief Dr Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, on his return to the state.
From the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, where a large crowd gathered to receive him, to Abakaliki, where another mammoth crowd assembled, Odii’s arrival generated considerable excitement among supporters, temporarily bringing activities in parts of the state capital to a standstill.
The reception took another dimension at a filling station in Abakaliki, where the PDP candidate reportedly treated supporters who gathered to welcome him to free fuel, with beneficiaries driving away with filled tanks.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Odii urged Ebonyi residents, irrespective of their places of origin, to prepare for what he described as a tough but decisive political battle ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
He expressed confidence that the collective determination of the people would ultimately prevail, insisting that the forthcoming election represents a defining moment in the political history of the state.
According to him, his governorship ambition is not driven by personal interests but by a determination to rescue Ebonyi from years of missed opportunities and alleged mismanagement of public resources.
Odii described his Anyi G’ Emeya movement as a people-driven mission aimed at restoring accountable leadership, creating economic opportunities and building an inclusive government that works for every Ebonyi resident.
Cheering supporters
Free fuel for all
He assured supporters that the deployment of modern technology and competent technology experts to monitor electoral activities across polling units would make electoral manipulation increasingly difficult.
The PDP candidate consequently urged eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and remain vigilant throughout the electoral process.
Speaking further, Odii declared that his achievements in business had already placed him in a position to enjoy extraordinary comfort and luxury anywhere in the world without seeking political office.
He explained that he could have chosen a life of leisure, travelling in luxury yachts and private aircraft, rather than subjecting himself to the demands and challenges of political leadership.
However, he maintained that his decision to contest the governorship election was informed by a greater desire to create an Ebonyi State where opportunities would no longer be the exclusive preserve of the politically connected.
Odii said his vision was to build a society where children from poor families could aspire to become governors, ministers, lawmakers and other prominent public officeholders on the strength of their intelligence, competence, leadership qualities and personal accomplishments.
He condemned a political culture in which access to opportunities and public offices is perceived to depend on family connections, influential relatives, in-laws or powerful political godfathers.
The PDP standard-bearer insisted that Ebonyi must embrace a new political order where merit, fairness and equal opportunity, rather than privilege and political patronage, determine the future of its citizens.
He called on supporters to remain united and committed to the Anyi G’ Emeya movement, expressing optimism that the 2027 election would usher in a new era of leadership in Ebonyi State.
ABAKALIKI — The camp of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Chief Dr Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, has dismissed reports suggesting that he may withdraw from the 2027 Ebonyi State governorship race and support Governor Francis Nwifuru.
In a statement signed by Odii’s spokesperson, Chief Emmanuel Chidi Igwe, the campaign described the reported withdrawal as false, insisting that Odii remains committed to contesting the election.
According to Igwe, “Chief Dr Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii will never, under any condition, step down from the 2027 governorship contest.”
The statement said Odii’s political camp remains focused on what it described as its campaign position: “Odii must run and win.”
It added that any political discussions, persuasion or negotiations involving other individuals should not be interpreted as a decision by Odii to abandon his governorship ambition.
Camp Rejects Withdrawal Narrative
The Odii camp further described reports of a possible withdrawal as a political narrative allegedly being promoted by individuals opposed to his candidacy.
Igwe challenged those behind the reports to produce evidence showing that Odii had personally announced his withdrawal from the race.
“There is a fundamental difference between reporting that a politician intends to persuade Chief Odii to withdraw and reporting that Chief Odii has agreed to withdraw,” the statement said, stressing that the latter would require evidence from the candidate himself.
The spokesperson also urged journalists, bloggers and online publishers to maintain professional standards when reporting political developments, warning against presenting speculation or the intentions of third parties as established decisions by political candidates.
24-Hour Retraction Demand
The camp has consequently demanded that publishers of the alleged withdrawal story retract or prominently correct their reports within 24 hours, unless they can produce an authentic statement from Odii confirming that he has decided to withdraw from the 2027 contest.
The statement also reminded online publishers of their responsibilities under Nigerian law, citing the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015, as amended, as well as other laws relating to unlawful online publications and defamatory material.
The spokesperson clarified that the reference to the law was not intended as a threat against legitimate journalism or political criticism, but as a reminder that political disagreements should remain within the bounds of the law.
The statement concluded by reaffirming that Odii remains in the 2027 governorship race and urged members of the public to regard reports of his withdrawal as unverified unless supported by a direct statement from him.
By Petrus Obi, London
London — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Ebonyi State, Ifeanyi Odii, has intensified his criticism of the administration of Governor Francis Nwifuru, insisting that the people of the state deserve a different approach to governance.
Odii, who spoke with EverydayNewsngr.net in London, said what he described as the “fire brigade approach” of the Nwifuru administration was not the kind of governance Ebonyi needs.
According to him, the state requires a government with a clear vision, long-term planning and the capacity to deliver meaningful development to its people.
“The fire brigade approach of the Nwifuru government is not what the state needs,” Odii said.
He added: “I am coming to bring a new lease of life to my people.”
Odii’s comments come amid renewed political debate in Ebonyi State following the recent removal of the state Commissioner for Works. The development has attracted attention from opposition circles, with critics using it to question aspects of the administration’s handling of governance and infrastructure.
The PDP chieftain said the people of Ebonyi should expect more than what he described as reactive governance, arguing that development should be driven by a coherent programme capable of producing lasting results.
He maintained that his political ambition was motivated by a desire to provide what he described as purposeful leadership and improve the welfare of residents across the state.
“We deserve better government in Ebonyi State,” Odii said, stressing that his vision was centred on giving the people renewed confidence in government and creating opportunities for them to prosper.
As political activities ahead of the next governorship election continue to gather momentum, governance, infrastructure, accountability and the delivery of public services are expected to feature prominently in the emerging contest.
Odii’s intervention in London is likely to add further momentum to the political conversation, particularly as opposition figures seek to distinguish their vision for Ebonyi from that of the incumbent administration.
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