A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and factional National Ex-Officio member, Mazi Moses Idika, has firmly rejected calls for Chief Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii to step down as the party’s 2027 governorship candidate in Ebonyi State, citing zoning concerns. Idika emphasized that Odii’s candidacy is legitimate and should be decided by the electorate, not by political arrangements or perceived zoning rules. He stressed that no constitutional provision bars any qualified citizen from contesting for the governorship, reinforcing the democratic principle of open competition.
Idika pointed out that since 1999, Ebonyi State has seen gubernatorial candidates emerge from all three senatorial districts — North, Central, and South — regardless of political zoning or party agreements. He argued that the idea of an “imaginary zoning system” has no legal or historical basis in the state’s electoral history. According to him, the people of Ebonyi have consistently elected leaders from different zones, proving that the state’s political landscape is open and inclusive.
He challenged supporters of Governor Francis Nwifuru’s re-election bid to focus on the administration’s accomplishments rather than engage in succession politics. Idika criticized the current government for failing to address pressing developmental challenges in the state, including infrastructure decay, unemployment, and poor healthcare services. He expressed confidence that Chief Odii, a businessman and philanthropist, would bring a fresh approach centered on investment, industrialization, and sustainable economic growth.
Describing Odii as a patriotic leader committed to the welfare of Ebonyi people, Idika highlighted his vision to open the state to greater economic opportunities and attract both local and foreign investments. He believes Odii’s leadership will restore prosperity and improve the standard of living for residents across the state. “Chief Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii will contest, he will win, and Ebonyi people will be happy again,” Idika declared with conviction.
Idika urged all Ebonyi residents to participate in the democratic process and decide the next governor through the ballot box during the 2027 governorship election. He called on party members and the public to support a candidate who prioritizes development over political maneuvering. The statement comes amid increasing political activity and realignments in Ebonyi State as parties prepare for the 2027 general elections. As the race heats up, the PDP’s stance on Odii’s candidacy signals a clear commitment to democratic principles and electoral fairness.
Leave a Comment