The Minister of Works, Chief David Umahi, has reaffirmed his unwavering support for Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, stating that no amount of blackmail or pressure will drive a wedge between them. Umahi, who served as the governor of Ebonyi for eight years, emphasized that the state has remained peaceful since Nwifuru assumed office in 2023, and he will not be drawn into any conflict.
Speaking at the flag-off of the 118.85-kilometer superhighway project in Afikpo, Ebonyi State, Umahi underlined the importance of peace for the state’s development. He addressed rumors of political discord, stating, “Some hungry persons have been trying to cause a crisis in this state. But I am not available. I have been badly used in the past, but not anymore.”
Umahi, who is known for his strong political influence in the state, made it clear that despite his past role as governor, he has no intention of contesting the state’s political structures with Nwifuru. “The Governor is the leader of the party in the State, and his words are final as far as party structure is concerned,” he said, adding that he would be focused on national duties and would not engage in local party politics.
Additionally, Umahi dismissed rumors that Nwifuru had signed an agreement to serve only one term in office, calling it a baseless claim. He clarified, “There is no such agreement anywhere. I supported him in becoming governor without any condition. His 8 years is sacrosanct.” He further praised Nwifuru for benefiting from a peaceful political landscape, with no opposition to his leadership, stating that the governor is the “luckiest Governor Ebonyi has produced.”
Umahi commended Nwifuru for uniting the state and encouraged him to disregard critics, focusing on his developmental projects instead. The former governor’s statements reflect his continued commitment to ensuring stability and progress in Ebonyi State, as well as his strong endorsement of Nwifuru’s leadership.
He argued that those criticising him now would later praise him when he leaves office.
“When I was Governor, they were shouting hunger, hunger everywhere. They said I was doing nothing. But now, they say I was a good Governor. But they criticised me bitterly when I was in office.
“Governor Nwifuru is not anyhow Governor. You can’t get him angry with social media posts unlike me. He will complete 8 years because there is no opposition party in Ebonyi State. Nwifuru has united everyone into APC. Come 2027, Ebonyi people will vote massively for Nwifuru and Tinubu.”
“So I urged you to remain focused, and continue to work for the state. You have my support and the support of the good people of Ebonyi State,” Umahi said.
