2027: Ex-governor endorses successor for second term

The immediate past Governor of Ebonyi State and now Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has endorsed his successor, Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, for a second tenure, come 2027.

The former two-term governor endorsed his successor for a second term when he paid him a new year homage on Friday.

Umahi was at the home of Nwifuru in Oferekpe Agbaja, Izzi Local Government area of Ebonyi State.

He performed the homage accompanied by former Executive Council Members who served in his administration.

The Minister expressed confidence in the performance of Nwifuru, describing him as a man of integrity.

He chronicled his journey with the governor as the Speaker of the House of Assembly during his tenure and commended his hard work, dedication and forthrightness, adding that he was instrumental to his achievements.

Umahi said: “We came today to pay homage to our governor in whom I find no fault.

“For me, we started this journey before I became a governor several years ago.

“We passed through difficult times.

“And throughout our stay in office, I never gave you one kobo.

“I found you on the alter of hard work, dedication, diligence and integrity.

“I had declared what God said I should declare: that your tenure is for eight years, and I am saying it here in the land of Izzi, your home.

“And I want to let you know that because of your goodwill and achievements, your reelection will be funded by friends and associates.

“You will not put one kobo.

“You have done very well, and there is no legacy we achieved in Ebonyi State that you were not part of.

“I declare openly once again that your eight years is unstoppable.”

The Minister further urged Ebonyi State people to always pray for and support President Bola Tinubu, who he said has initiated many projects in the state.

Responding, Governor Nwifuru assured that no amount of gossip and blackmail from detractors would be able to bring resentment between him and his predecessor.

He applauded the former governor for his statesmanship in helping to achieve the vision of the state, assuring that he is working assiduously to consolidate on the democratic gains already achieved by him.

He said: “I sincerely want to thank the former governor of our dear state, Engr. David Umahi.

“He has been supporting us and helping us achieve our programmes.

“And we will continue to deliver from where he stopped.”

It is believed that the outcome of this visit by the former governor will bring to an end speculations about a brewing disagreement between Nwifuru and his predecessor.