The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State has strongly condemned a statement attributed to Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi. According to the PDP, Umahi reportedly said he "killed PDP" and threatened to "unalive" it if the party attempts to revive. The PDP Publicity Secretary, Prince Darlington Peter Onwe, released a statement criticizing Umahi's language as a threat capable of creating fear and intimidation among opposition members.
Onwe argued that Umahi's statement raises serious questions about his attitude towards opposition politics and the democratic process. He emphasized that the PDP is a political organization with millions of Nigerian members who believe in democracy and constitutional governance. Onwe maintained that disagreement with the PDP should be expressed through political arguments rather than threats against the party's existence.
The PDP Publicity Secretary reminded Umahi of his own political history, having served as Ebonyi governor on the PDP platform before defecting to the APC in 2020. Onwe noted that this history shows that political parties survive beyond individual politicians. He stressed that the PDP will not be intimidated by statements suggesting that any individual can determine an opposition party's existence or participation in elections.
The PDP expressed concern over Ebonyi's history of politically charged confrontations during election cycles. In 2023, opposition politicians and candidates reported allegations of attacks and intimidation, which the then-government disputed. Onwe emphasized that political leaders must be cautious with their words to ensure democracy allows parties and candidates to campaign freely without fear.
The PDP reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing political objectives peacefully and constitutionally. The party's candidate, Chief Dr Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, and other members have the constitutional right to participate in the 2027 electoral process. Onwe stated that no politician has the authority to "unalive" that right, challenging Umahi to replace threats with arguments and focus on presenting his vision for Ebonyi State.
The PDP called on its members and supporters to remain calm, law-abiding, and focused on peaceful political engagement. The party urged security agencies and relevant institutions to monitor statements that could heighten political tension ahead of the 2027 elections. By emphasizing the importance of ideas, records, and programs over threats and intimidation, the PDP seeks to promote a healthy democratic process in Ebonyi State.
Ultimately, the PDP emphasized that elections are decided by the people, not by individual politicians' declarations. The party stressed that the ballot belongs to the people of Ebonyi State, concluding that it will continue to engage in peaceful and constitutional political activities.
Key points
- The PDP condemns Umahi's statement as a threat to opposition politics and democratic process.
- Umahi's comment has raised concerns about the safety of opposition members in Ebonyi State.
- The PDP has challenged Umahi to clarify his statement and focus on presenting his vision for Ebonyi State.
