Governor Nwifuru Warns Wike Against Interfering in Ebonyi Politics Ahead of 2027
ABAKALIKI, Nigeria — Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has cautioned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and his political associates against interfering in the state’s political affairs ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ rally in Abakaliki, where supporters endorsed his second-term bid alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election, Nwifuru dismissed reports alleging that President Tinubu had handed over Ebonyi’s political structure to Wike.
According to the governor, some opposition politicians have been telling residents that the President had empowered the FCT minister to influence the outcome of the 2027 governorship election in Ebonyi State.
Reacting to the claims, Nwifuru dismissed the rumours, saying:
“Some people are going around saying they discussed with President Tinubu and that the President has given Ebonyi to the PDP. They said Nyesom Wike is their leader and that Wike said the President has given Ebonyi to him. We simply say, ‘Eeyah!’ What a pity.”
The governor insisted that his administration would resist any attempt by outsiders to influence the state’s political direction.
“We are not afraid of political intimidation. Ebonyi people will determine their own political future,” he said, adding that his government remains confident in its grassroots support.
PDP Factions Disagree
Nwifuru’s comments triggered differing reactions from rival factions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
A PDP faction loyal to Wike, through its spokesperson, Hon. Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, criticised the governor’s remarks, arguing that he should focus on governance rather than political confrontation.
The faction stated that Wike should not be drawn into what it described as the governor’s political challenges and urged Nwifuru to demonstrate his popularity through visible development projects.
However, another PDP faction led by Kabiru Turaki defended the Ebonyi governor.
Through its spokesperson, Ini Ememobong, the group accused Wike of interfering in the politics of states outside his jurisdiction and supported Nwifuru’s decision to speak out.
Political Stakes Rise Ahead of 2027
Political observers say the exchange reflects the growing political realignments and tensions ahead of the 2027 elections, with parties and influential figures already positioning themselves for key contests across the country.
As of the time of filing this report, Minister Nyesom Wike had not publicly responded to Governor Nwifuru’s remarks.
