Some political stakeholders in Ebonyi State have firmly opposed any move to postpone the 2027 general elections on account of the nation’s worsening security situation, insisting that insecurity should be confronted head-on rather than used as a basis for delaying democratic processes.
The stakeholders, who spoke in separate interviews in Abakaliki the state capital on Tuesday expressed varying views on the causes of insecurity and the leadership needed to steer the country out of its current challenges, but unanimously agreed that elections must hold as scheduled.
The Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ebonyi State, Dr. Jennifer Adibe, described the country’s insecurity as a man-made crisis that can be addressed within a short period if the Federal Government demonstrates genuine commitment.
Adibe maintained that the ADC is not in support of postponing the 2027 general elections, arguing that those behind acts of terrorism and banditry often expose themselves through videos circulated on social media and should be brought to book
“We in ADC Ebonyi State are not in support of postponement of the 2027 general elections because insecurity is man-made. If the ruling party truly wants to end insecurity, it can be done within a short period because they know how it started and how to stop it,” she said.
Former Minister of State for Health, Fidelix Nwankwo, identified former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi as the leader capable of tackling insecurity, inflation, economic hardship and rising fuel prices in the country.
According to him, Obi’s leadership style and achievements in Anambra State have positioned him as the best candidate to transform Nigeria’s fortunes.
“Peter Obi remains the answer to the prayers of Nigerians. A vote for him in 2027 will redirect the country towards genuine political independence, economic prosperity and good governance. He is God-sent to salvage Nigeria,” Nwankwo stated.
On his part, the Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Ebonyi State, Mr. Stephen Ojeogu, faulted the administration of President Bola Tinubu over the nation’s security and economic challenges, insisting that the government has failed to meet its primary responsibility of protecting lives and property.
Ojeogu argued that the removal of fuel subsidy has worsened the plight of Nigerians and called on the President to take responsibility for the prevailing situation.
“The level of insecurity in Nigeria is no longer funny. Every day comes with reports of one security challenge or another. Since government has failed in its core responsibility of protecting citizens, the President Bola Tinubu should resign honourably and allow a capable and younger person to take over,” he said.
The Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Ebonyi State, Mr. Emmanuel Nwankwo, attributed the persistent insecurity in the country to selfish political interests, alleging that some politicians benefit from prolonged crises.
He urged the Federal Government to improve the welfare of military personnel, stressing that adequately motivated security operatives would be more effective in combating insurgency and other violent crimes.
“The truth is that if the Federal Government wants to end insecurity, it will do so. We play politics with everything in Nigeria. The welfare of military personnel should be prioritized, and government must stop treating security matters with levity,” Nwankwo said.
He also dismissed calls for postponement of the 2027 elections, describing such suggestions as an attempt to extend the tenure of leaders who have failed to meet public expectations.
“It is a taboo to talk about postponing the 2027 general elections. Nigeria is not under military rule. Democracy must be allowed to take its course,” he added.
Despite their differing political leanings and preferred solutions, the stakeholders were united in their position that insecurity should not be us
