The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), the leading socio-cultural youth organization of Igbo youths worldwide, has cautioned Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State against engaging in a leadership struggle within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Instead, the group urged him to focus on delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Ebonyi State.
Speaking in Abakaliki, the National President of OYC, Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, expressed concern over the slowing pace of infrastructural development under Gov. Nwifuru’s administration. He warned that the ongoing political tension between the governor and his predecessor, Senator David Umahi, now Minister of Works, is affecting the state’s progress and economic stability.
Comrade Igboayaka alleged that Gov. Nwifuru’s determination to secure the APC gubernatorial ticket for 2027 has led him to engage in political blackmail against Sen. Umahi. He accused the governor of prioritizing party leadership battles over addressing critical security and economic challenges in the state.
“It is unfortunate that some leaders in the South-East are more focused on their political ambitions rather than governance. Gov. Nwifuru should focus on tackling security challenges and economic issues rather than engaging in unnecessary political rivalries,” Igboayaka stated.
The OYC lamented the increasing security threats in Ebonyi, particularly in rural areas where farmers face violent attacks from suspected Fulani herdsmen. The council noted that the attacks have disrupted agricultural activities, including the production of “Ebonyi Special Rice,” a key economic product of the state.
“The killings and kidnappings in Effium continue unchecked, and the communal conflict between Effium and Ezza Effium requires urgent attention. The governor must take immediate steps to restore peace and security,” Igboayaka said.
The youth leader called on the governor to establish well-funded indigenous vigilante groups in vulnerable areas such as Izzi Local Government Area, Ishielu Local Government Area, and Ohaukwu Local Government Area. He emphasized that these communities, especially those bordering Benue State, remain at high risk of violence.
The OYC has given Gov. Nwifuru a 90-day ultimatum to find a permanent solution to the Effium and Ezza Effium crisis and to strengthen security measures across the state.
“It would be more beneficial for the governor to prioritize the safety and well-being of Ebonyi citizens rather than focusing on political battles over party leadership,” the statement concluded.
The council urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take note of the security concerns in Ebonyi and ensure that governance in the state is directed towards public welfare rather than political maneuvering.
As Ebonyi State continues to face economic and security challenges, the call from the Ohanaeze Youth Council highlights the growing demand for responsible leadership and governance focused on the people’s needs.
