By Jeff Agbodo

The Ebonyi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a stern warning to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) against spreading misinformation, falsehood, and inciting residents against Governor Francis Nwifuru.

The APC cautioned the PDP to refrain from sowing seeds of hatred, malice, and disunity, as well as creating unnecessary tension in the state.

Reacting to a statement attributed to Chief Ifeanyi Odii, the PDP’s 2023 governorship candidate, through his media aide Moses Idika, the APC State Chairman, Chief Stanley Okoro Emegha, dismissed the claims as baseless and lacking in truth.

Last week, the PDP had released a statement titled “Governor Ogbonnaya Nwifuru’s Profligacy Is Leading Ebonyi to the Golgotha: Ebonyi State Is Endangered,” accusing Governor Nwifuru of borrowing to fund projects with no tangible benefits to the state. The statement specifically alleged that the governor spent ₦20 billion on an airport project, among other accusations.

In response, Chief Emegha stated: “While I have resolved not to engage with political novices or grant them undue publicity, I will not tolerate any unwarranted attack on Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru. His leadership has brought peace and development to Ebonyi State.”

Emegha criticized Odii for questioning the importance of rebuilding the Chuba Okadigbo Airport runway in Onueke, describing the remarks as shocking and unpatriotic.

“This action confirms Odii’s role as an adversary to the state and its people. His view disregards the potential economic benefits of the project, which is set to boost local businesses and significantly increase land values around the airport vicinity,” Emegha said.

He further commended Governor Nwifuru for reconstructing the airport runway, highlighting its capacity to stimulate economic growth and strengthen the state’s development.

“Rather than criticize, the governor deserves commendation for taking such a bold step. The airport project will blossom businesses within Ebonyi and its environs,” Emegha added.

The APC chairman also took a swipe at Odii and his supporters, stating, “It is high time some of these individuals were restrained to save Ebonyi State from embarrassment on the global stage.”

Chief Emegha reiterated the APC’s commitment to supporting Governor Nwifuru’s administration and fostering unity and progress in Ebonyi State.