The Association of Ebonyi Indigenes Socio-Cultural in the Diaspora has issued a warning to David Umahi, the current Minister of Works and Housing, urging him to refrain from pressuring his successor, Governor Francis Nwifuru, over issues related to a second-term ticket and to allow him to govern the state independently.
In a statement released on Monday, AEISCID President Paschal Omaka responded to recent media reports in which Umahi lamented being distanced by those he had helped secure political positions within Ebonyi State. Despite Umahi’s claims of maintaining a good relationship with Nwifuru, the group emphasized the need for Umahi to focus on his national responsibilities, particularly the construction of cement-technology roads across the country.
The association expressed skepticism about the durability of these roads, citing the failure of similar concrete roads Umahi constructed in Ebonyi during his tenure as governor. AEISCID suggested that Umahi’s recent media engagements are part of a broader strategy to maintain influence over the state by issuing subtle threats regarding Nwifuru’s potential second term.
AEISCID asserted: “Knowing the character of Umahi, we at AEISCID wish to raise a red flag on his claims and inform the whole world that despite being a Minister of the Federal Republic, he still directly and indirectly controls and pilots the affairs of Ebonyi State, thus making it difficult for his successor to take firm decisions and govern the people of Ebonyi like his counterparts in other parts of the country.”
The group further criticized Umahi’s alleged imposition of local government chairmen, which they claim undermines the authority of Governor Nwifuru and other stakeholders. They highlighted the situation ahead of the July 2024 Council polls, noting that Umahi had effectively ensured the return of ten out of thirteen local government chairmen, despite opposition from Nwifuru and other stakeholders.
AEISCID also remarked: “Though the overt control over Nwifuru is not yet public knowledge and may even be denied by his government, who dreads his predecessor as a greedy emperor, AEISCID frowns at the fact that the slow start of events and the inability of Nwifuru to showcase more democracy dividends to the people of Ebonyi one year after assuming office may not be unconnected to the obvious influence exerted on him by Umahi.”
The association urged Governor Nwifuru to assert his leadership and effectively govern the state, free from the overshadowing influence of his predecessor.