The Ebonyi State Government has dismissed reports suggesting a political rift between Governor Francis Nwifuru and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, accusing the Peoples Democratic Party of deliberately twisting the governor’s remarks to create disaffection ahead of the 2027 general election.
The clarification came in a statement issued in Abakaliki on Monday, July 7, 2026, by Commissioner for Information and State Orientation Ikeuwa Omebeh, following reactions to comments made by Nwifuru during the APC endorsement rally held on June 15, 2026, at the Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium in Abakaliki.
At the rally, Nwifuru responded to claims by some opposition figures that President Bola Tinubu had allegedly handed over the political structure of Ebonyi State to Wike and his associates.
The governor warned those spreading what he described as falsehoods to desist, using the expression that he would “consume” anyone attempting to destabilise the state.
The remark sparked criticism from the PDP, with some party members interpreting it as a threat against Wike.
Responding to the controversy, Omebeh said the governor’s comments had been deliberately taken out of context.
“At no time did His Excellency, Francis Nwifuru, issue a threat against the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike,” he said.
According to the commissioner, the governor’s remarks were directed solely at individuals allegedly spreading fake news and propaganda in Wike’s name to create political instability in Ebonyi State.
“The word ‘consume’ used by His Excellency was a metaphorical expression, indicating that those involved in such acts would face the full weight of the law if they fail to retrace their steps,” Omebeh explained.
The state government insisted there is no disagreement between Nwifuru and Wike, describing their relationship as one built on mutual respect and political goodwill.
“Governor Francis Nwifuru and Nyesom Wike enjoy a cordial relationship built on mutual respect,” Omebeh said.
He added, “Any attempt to create an imaginary misunderstanding between Francis Nwifuru and Nyesom Wike will fail like a pack of cards.”
The commissioner further accused factions of the PDP of exploiting the governor’s remarks for political advantage, alleging that the opposition was seeking to manufacture a crisis where none exists.
He urged the party to concentrate on resolving its internal challenges rather than spreading narratives capable of heating the polity.
Omebeh also warned that individuals found circulating false information or engaging in propaganda aimed at undermining peace in the state would face appropriate legal consequences.
The statement reaffirmed the Ebonyi State Government’s commitment to preserving political stability and maintaining cordial relationships with leaders across party lines as preparations for the 2027 elections continue.