2027: Nwifuru Won’t Surrender to Opponents, Tackling Insecurity Head-On, Aliuna Tells Critics

By Uchenna Okeh, Abakaliki

The former House of Representatives candidate for Ebonyi Ohaukwu Federal Constituency, Aliuna Godwin, has dismissed claims questioning Governor Francis Nwifuru’s political strength ahead of the 2027 governorship election, insisting that the governor remains focused on governance and addressing security challenges across the state.

Aliuna, who made his position known in a statement, challenged the governor’s critics to stop what he described as attempts to undermine Nwifuru’s reputation, arguing that the administration’s performance should be assessed based on its record in infrastructure, social welfare and peace-building.

The former National Assembly hopeful maintained that Nwifuru would not be intimidated by political opposition as the 2027 general elections approach, expressing confidence in the governor’s ability to defend his political record before the electorate.

He described as unfounded suggestions that the governor could be forced to abandon his political ambition, insisting that political competition should be based on verifiable records, public service and the ability of candidates to connect with the people.

Aliuna urged political actors and other stakeholders to exercise restraint in their public comments, warning against statements that could heighten tensions or deepen divisions in Ebonyi State at a time when security and peaceful coexistence remain important concerns.

According to him, the governor’s administration has continued to pursue development initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of residents, with particular attention to infrastructure, public services and efforts to sustain peace across communities.

He further argued that the state had recorded development strides under Nwifuru’s leadership, describing the governor as a leader whose achievements, in his view, should be evaluated through tangible projects and policies rather than political criticism.

The former House of Representatives candidate also expressed confidence in the administration’s handling of security concerns, particularly reports of killings and destruction of property in parts of Ezza South and Ezza North Local Government Areas, and the one, involving Ebonyians in Anambra state.

He said the governor was working to address the situation, adding that the administration did not necessarily need to publicise every step being taken to respond to security threats.

Aliuna maintained that the protection of lives and property should remain a priority for the government, urging security agencies and relevant authorities to intensify efforts to investigate reported incidents, identify those responsible and bring them to justice.

He also cautioned against the politicisation of insecurity, arguing that political disagreements should not be allowed to undermine efforts to restore peace or create further divisions among residents of the affected communities.

The former National Assembly hopeful described Nwifuru as a leader who, in his assessment, had demonstrated commitment to governance and development, adding that criticism of the administration should be constructive and supported by facts.

He said the approach adopted by the government in responding to security challenges should be judged by its results, including the extent to which affected communities regain confidence, normal activities resume and residents feel protected.

On the approaching 2027 elections, Aliuna urged political opponents to focus on presenting their programmes and engaging voters on issues affecting their welfare rather than making personal attacks against the incumbent governor.

He further argued that the credibility of political contenders should be determined by their public records, policy proposals and engagement with constituents, rather than by the intensity of their criticism of the government.

Aliuna reiterated his confidence in Nwifuru’s political standing, maintaining that the governor should be allowed to concentrate on governance while political parties and aspirants prepare to test their support through the democratic process in 2027.