Gov. Nwifuru Reads Riot Act to LGA Chairmen; APC Wins or Quit

Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has directed the newly inaugurated chairmen of the state’s 13 local government areas to deliver victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections or risk losing their positions.

He issued the threat on Tuesday in Abakaliki during the swearing-in of the elected chairmen and vice-chairmen.

Nwifuru told the chairmen that any failure to secure victory for the APC in their councils would lead to removal and replacement by a councillor.

He insisted that the party must win overwhelmingly across the state and cautioned against allowing opposition parties to gain ground.

He urged the chairmen to work closely with their deputies to avoid conflicts that could undermine effective administration. “Any chairman who fails to deliver his local government area to the APC will be removed and replaced,” he said.

Advice To Vice-Chairmen

Addressing the vice-chairmen, Nwifuru compared their roles to “spare tyres inside the car boot,” advising them to remain prepared to take over whenever necessary.

He encouraged them to stay informed about council affairs and avoid relying on gossip or divisive advice.

The governor recalled that his deputy, who previously served as a local government chairperson, had performed well in that role, which contributed to her current position. He said this should serve as an example for the new vice-chairmen.

Nwifuru emphasised that loyalty to the APC was non-negotiable. He reminded the chairmen that their mandate was tied to the party’s success and urged them to mobilise grassroots support.

He also warned against complacency, saying opposition parties would exploit any weakness.

Among the newly inaugurated chairmen are Osborne Umahi, son of Works Minister David Umahi, and Chidi Nwode, a relative of the governor’s wife. Their inclusion reflects the influence of political families within Ebonyi’s local government leadership.

Chairmen’s Response

Speaking on behalf of the chairmen, Timothy Nwachi of Afikpo Local Government Area expressed gratitude to the governor and APC stakeholders.

He pledged that the chairmen would justify the confidence placed in them and secure decisive victories for the party in 2027. “We will work to ensure APC wins across the state,” Nwachi said.

The inauguration is the start of preparations for the next general elections, with Ebonyi’s local government leaders expected to play a critical role in mobilising voters.