Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has directed the newly inaugurated chairmen of the state’s 13 local government areas to ensure victory for the All Progressives Congress in their respective councils in the 2027 elections or risk losing their positions.
Nwifuru issued the warning on Tuesday in Abakaliki, the state capital, while inaugurating the newly elected chairmen and vice-chairmen of the 13 local government areas, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.
The governor said any chairman who fails to deliver his local government area to the APC would be removed and replaced by a councillor.
He also directed the chairmen to ensure that the party wins overwhelmingly across the state, warning them against allowing opposition parties to gain ground in their respective local government areas.
Nwifuru called on the council chairmen to work closely with their deputies and avoid conflicts that could undermine the effective administration of their councils.
Addressing the vice-chairmen, the governor compared their positions to “spare tyres inside the car boot,” advising them to remain prepared to take over whenever their principals are unable to perform their duties.
He told the vice-chairmen to remain informed about the daily affairs of their councils and avoid relying on gossip or advice that could create disagreements with their chairmen.
Nwifuru recalled that his deputy governor had previously served as a local government chairperson, saying her performance in that position contributed to the confidence placed in her to serve as deputy governor.
Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated chairmen, Timothy Nwachi, Chairman of Afikpo Local Government Area, expressed appreciation to the governor and APC stakeholders for entrusting them with the responsibility of leading their councils.
Nwachi pledged that the chairmen would work to justify the confidence placed in them and secure a decisive victory for the APC in the 2027 elections.
Among the newly inaugurated chairmen are Osborne Umahi, son of Works Minister David Umahi, and Chidi Nwode, who is related to the governor’s wife.
Goodness Anunobi
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