Group in Ebonyi Raises N50m to Purchase Nomination, Expression of Interest Forms for Gov. Nwifuru

From Nabob Ogbonna, Abakaliki

The 63 coordinators of development centres in Ebonyi State have endorsed the re-election bid of Governor Francis Nwifuru ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The group also raised N50 million to support the purchase of nomination and expression of interest forms under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The coordinators, led by their chairman, Hon. Chidi Ogbonna of Ominyi Development Centre in Izzi Local Government Area, made the declaration yesterday at the APC state secretariat in Abakaliki. They described their intervention as both symbolic and strategic, aimed at consolidating political support for the governor’s second-term ambition.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Ogbonna highlighted what he described as the administration’s emphasis on rural infrastructure, particularly road projects across communities, which he said had accelerated grassroots development in the state.

“Our decision as serving coordinators is anchored on the governor’s measurable, people-oriented governance, especially in rural areas,” “As frontline mobilisers, we are here to demonstrate solidarity and reaffirm our confidence in his leadership.”he said. 

He added that the “dividends of democracy” were increasingly visible in hinterland communities, strengthening their resolve to support the governor’s continuity in office beyond 2027.

Ogbonna further disclosed that, beyond the financial contribution, the forum had activated its grassroots mobilisation structures across wards and polling units to galvanise electoral support for the governor and the party.

In his response, the APC State Chairman, Stanley Okoro Emegha, commended the coordinators, describing their action as a demonstration of loyalty and political foresight.

Emegha urged them to deepen grassroots engagement and convert their endorsement into tangible electoral outcomes.

“You must translate this show of support into effective voter mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections,”  “The APC expects results at the polls, which will require sustained engagement, strategic communication, and unwavering commitment at the grassroots level, where you operate.”he said.

Similarly, Barr. Chika Igboke of Imoha Development Centre described the endorsement as a clear alignment with the governor’s leadership and policy direction.

He noted that the administration’s governance approach had positively impacted all 63 development centres, adding that the coordinators were united in their support.

“We are satisfied with the level of governance we have witnessed. Our position goes beyond mere endorsement—we are committed to demonstrating this support as we approach the 2027 elections. We are unanimously in agreement on his re-election,” Igboke stated.