PDP tells Gov. Nwifuru the 2027 election will focus on performance, not intimidation.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) maintains that the 2027 Ebonyi governorship election will be decided solely on performance and accountability, rather than intimidation, propaganda or political blackmail.

PDP National Publicity Secretary Mr Jungudo Mohammed made the statement during a news conference held at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja on Thursday.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the party was responding to recent remarks attributed to Gov. Nwifuru, who allegedly threatened at a political rally that he would “consume and destroy” opposition elements in the state.

Mohammed expressed concern over the governor’s alleged comment, labeling it reckless, inflammatory and indicative of desperation ahead of the 2027 polls.

“These unfortunate statements clearly expose a governor who is increasingly troubled by the prospect of his rejection by the people of Ebonyi State in 2027,” he said.

The PDP spokesman urged that, instead of threatening the opposition, Nwifuru should account for state resources and explain his administration’s performance over the past three years.

He questioned several state projects, such as the N24 billion renovation of Ebonyi Airport, education initiatives, and incomplete two-kilometre road projects in various local government areas.

Mohammed also requested clarification on the beneficiaries of the state’s overseas scholarship programme and the alleged funds earmarked for traditional rulers’ palaces.

He stated that the PDP rejected attempts by Nwifuru to involve the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in his local political disputes.

“The truth is that Gov. Nwifuru’s challenge is not Chief Wike; his challenge is the people of Ebonyi State who are yearning for competent leadership,” Mohammed said.

He added that if the governor is concerned about the upcoming election, he should prepare to face the PDP governorship candidate, Dr Ifeanyi Odii, at the polls.

Expressing concern about the safety of PDP members, Mohammed urged security agencies and civil society organisations to take note of the governor’s remarks, which he described as disturbing.

He warned that nothing untoward should occur to any PDP supporter, leader, or its governorship candidate.

“If the governor truly wishes to ‘consume’ the people of Ebonyi State, let him do so through visible developmental projects, effective governance and tangible improvements in their living conditions,” he said.

Mohammed, however, urged the state’s electorate to remain steadfast ahead of 2027.