Nwifuru, Wike Enjoy Strong Ties, Rift Claims False—-Commissioner

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike (Left) and Governor of Ebonyi State Francis Nwifuru

By Nabob Ogbonna, Abakaliki

The Ebonyi State Government has dismissed reports circulating in some quarters alleging that Governor Francis Nwifuru had vowed to confront the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
The government described the reports as false and misleading, insisting that Governor Nwifuru and the FCT Minister enjoy a cordial relationship founded on mutual respect.
The clarification follows speculation that the FCT Minister had allegedly reached an agreement with the leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to unseat Governor Nwifuru in the 2027 governorship election by backing the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Chukwuma Odii.
According to the state government, Governor Nwifuru’s remarks during the APC endorsement rally for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, held on June 15, 2026, at the Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium, Abakaliki, were deliberately misrepresented and misinterpreted by opposition elements for political advantage.
The government alleged that certain opposition figures have been spreading false information and propaganda aimed at creating unnecessary political tension between Governor Nwifuru and the FCT Minister.
The position of the state government was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Barr. Ikeuwa Omebeh, and made available to journalists in Abakaliki.
Omebeh maintained that the Governor’s remarks were directed at individuals and political actors allegedly using the name of the FCT Minister to spread falsehood and propaganda capable of causing political instability in Ebonyi State.
He reiterated that Governor Nwifuru and Minister Wike maintain a cordial and respectful relationship, stressing that there was no basis for claims that the Governor made derogatory or threatening comments against the FCT Minister.
“There was no basis whatsoever for suggesting that the Governor made derogatory or threatening remarks against the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike,” Omebeh stated.
He further explained that the Governor’s use of the word “consume” was purely metaphorical and referred to the enforcement of the law against individuals whose actions are capable of undermining peace, security, and public order in Ebonyi State.
The commissioner also advised the leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state to concentrate on resolving its internal challenges rather than criticising the performance of the present administration.
According to him, a political party grappling with prolonged internal crises lacks the moral authority to assess or criticise the achievements of Governor Nwifuru’s administration.
Omebeh further asserted that the PDP has become politically insignificant in Ebonyi State and would not pose any serious electoral challenge to the ruling APC in the 2027 general elections.
He warned that the state government would no longer tolerate the activities of individuals allegedly spreading fake news and misinformation aimed at creating disaffection and political disharmony in the state, adding that such persons would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
He reaffirmed that the people of Ebonyi State remain firmly committed to supporting the administration of Governor Francis Nwifuru and ensuring his re-election in the 2027 governorship election.