The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ebonyi State, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, has raised concerns about the safety of his running mate, Patrick Mgbebu, citing alleged threats. This development comes ahead of the February 8, 2027, governorship election in the state. Odii's spokesman, Emmanuel Igwe, stated that the candidate has urged security agencies to investigate and take necessary steps to protect Mgbebu, members of the campaign council, and other party supporters.
Patrick Mgbebu, a former member of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly and immediate past representative of the state on the Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Allocation Commission (RMAFC), was selected as Odii's running mate about two weeks ago. His selection followed consultations with PDP stakeholders in the state. According to Odii, Mgbebu's experience, personality, and political reach across different groups influenced his choice as running mate.
Mgbebu previously served as a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) before joining the PDP campaign. His decision to join the PDP reflects his commitment to the state, according to Odii. The PDP candidate emphasized that Mgbebu's political experience and credentials made him an ideal choice as running mate. The selection process involved consultations with party stakeholders and consideration of Mgbebu's credentials.
Dr. Odii has called on security agencies to take the security concerns surrounding his running mate seriously, especially as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 election. He urged them to assess any credible information relating to threats against political actors in the state and take preventive measures. This appeal comes as the electoral process is expected to gain momentum in the coming weeks.
The PDP candidate also appealed to political parties, candidates, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, and security agencies to work together to maintain peace throughout the electoral process. He emphasized the need for political disagreements to be addressed through constitutional and democratic means rather than confrontation or violence. This, he believes, will ensure a peaceful and credible election.
Odii stressed that the people of Ebonyi State deserve an election conducted in an atmosphere of peace, freedom, and security. He urged security agencies to provide adequate protection for all political actors and campaign organisations, irrespective of their party affiliations. Additionally, he called on politicians and their supporters to avoid inflammatory statements and actions that could heighten tensions as preparations for the governorship election continue.
Dr. Odii reiterated his commitment to pursuing his political ambition through constitutional and democratic means. He emphasized the need for all stakeholders to protect the peace in Ebonyi State. The PDP candidate's concerns about his running mate's safety highlight the importance of security in the upcoming election. Key actors in the electoral process must work together to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for all participants.
Key points
- Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii alerts security agencies to potential threats against his running mate, Patrick Mgbebu.
- The security concerns come ahead of the February 8, 2027, governorship election in Ebonyi State.
- Odii calls for a peaceful and secure electoral process, urging stakeholders to work together to maintain peace.
