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Steve Oruruo-led 15-man Ebonyi PDP Caretaker Committee inaugurated amid protest by stakeholders

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Barrister Steve Oruruo has been sworn-in as the chairman of the 15-man caretaker committee that will pilot affairs of the crisis -ridden Ebonyi Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

Oruruo from Enugu state was appointed to lead the Ebonyi caretaker committee as a strategic move by the party leaders to restore probity and reposition the party  in the state.

But  some  PDP stakeholders in the state  have rejected the constituted Caretaker Committee approved by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party.

The aggrieved stakeholders and their supporters have threatened to resign en-masse from the party if the caretaker committee is not replaced by the agreed list emanating from the stakeholders in the state.

Their protest was, however, ignored by the NWC as Oruruo and other executives were sworn in by the zonal Chairman of the party, Chief Ali Odefa at the PDP’s zonal office in Enugu.

Odefa described the committee as unique because, according to him,  the national working committee has demonstrated uncommon determination to solving the political imbroglio in Ebonyi.

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Chief Odefa while congratulating the committee members, reminded them that they emerged “through a struggle which I believe is needless considering the huge risks we took defending the party against a tyrannical government in Ebonyi State.”

He expressed optimism that the committee will live up to the task considering the class of people therein, while thanking the NWC of the party for their interventions.

“Today, I’m deeply impressed with the calibre of persons that have been nominated into this caretaker committee, especially the Chairman and Secretary that come from Enugu State. They’re people of impeccable character that are well known in the party, they’re not greenhorns.

“I want to also thank the NWC that tried to mediate in the crisis without taking side. I’m very confident that going forward, there will be peace in Ebonyi Chapter. While inaugurating them, I charged them to be loyal to the party first, uphold its constitution and not to pander to me or any other stakeholder.”

While promising to supervise the activities of the new committee, Chief Odefa said they’ve learnt their lessons and they’re working so hard to ensure those mistakes aren’t repeated.

In his remark, the member representing Afikpo North/Afikpo South federal constituency in the House of reps, Rt. Hon. Iduma Igariwey thanked the NWC for taking a bold step in solving the problem of Ebonyi PDP.

“This is the first time that the NWC made frantic effort to understand the problem of our party which I believe led to our humiliating loss in the last election. I think that for the first time, a Daniel has come to judgement.

“If we handle this process very well, we can begin to restore the foundation of the PDP which has been lost.

Hon. Igariwey charged all the stakeholders of the party to join hands in building the party because “Ebonyi State since 1999 has been a PDP state. We’ve always won our elections under PDP.”

In his acceptance speech after the inauguration, Barr. Oruruo, a former secretary of the PDP in Enugu state while acknowledging the enormous task ahead, said he’s confident with the team that has been assembled and very certain they’ll rescue Ebonyi PDP.

“I understand the enormity of the task but we’ve made up our mind to reorganise the party, get it rejuvenated, create a new order and a semblance of peace and galvanise the spirit of the members of the party and place us on the platter of conquest.”

“This intellectuals brought together for one single purpose of getting the party resuscitated are willing and committed to the task ahead.

“Our mandate is very simple; to re-establish orderliness in the party, reinvent the spirit of unison among the stakeholders and also get us ready for the congresses of the party and the convention. We will reintroduce intergrity, fairness, rule of law and commitment to repositioning the party and respect for the constitution,” he added.

The committee has Barr. Pascal Ukwuani as the secretary while the following persons from Ebonyi state  will serve as members. They include Barr. Jude Omoha, Francis Ibiam,  Ude Akaji, Chief Godwin Nwode, Hon. Amechi Oken, Chief Christopher Elechi Ngwuta, Dave Odey, Hon Ezekiel Igede, Hon. Chika Nwoba, Hon. Emmauel Uka A., Engr. Edward Ifeanyi Odanwu,  Okoro Monday Ogbonnaya and Hon. Mark Onu.

Meanwhile, a statement signed by 71 members and stakeholders of the party in Ebonyi, which was made available to The Advocate last weekend, seriously kicked against the composition of the caretaker committee.

According to the statement, “The NWC mandated the PDP stakeholders and members present to nominate a candidate each from the 13 local government areas of the state to serve in a new Caretaker committee to be immediately inaugurated.

“The Ebonyi State PDP members subsequently made nominations, while the NWC announced that it reserves the right to appoint the Chairman and Secretary from any part of the Southeast.”

However, when the party released the new Caretaker Committee list last Friday it was discovered that the earlier submitted list had been replaced by the National Working Committee.

The stakeholders declared that “From the above conduct of the PDP NWC, it is now crystal clear that they are either working as undertakers for the final burial of the PDP in Ebonyi State, or they are being misguided by arch-enemies of the PDP in Ebonyi State.

“We hereby state categorically that if the NWC reneges on the collectively agreed-upon list of new caretaker committee as submitted by the various local government chapters of the PDP in Ebonyi State, we may not have any other option than to resign from the PDP.

“We have sacrificed personal and individual resources and comfort to stay true and loyal to the PDP in Ebonyi State in the face of organised intimidation, harassment and subterfuge plots. It is, therefore, curious that the National leadership of our great party looks reluctant to help the party stay strong in Ebonyi State.”

Among those who signed the letter were Senator Paulinus Igwe Nwagu, the Deputy Governorship Candidate of the party in the 2023 general elections, Sen. Michael Amah Nnachi, Barr. Onwe S. Onwe, former Acting National Secretary of the PDP, Lagos-based business mogul, Chief Julius Amah and Dr. Paul Okorie a former governorship aspirant.

Others include Hon. Chris Usulor, Hon. Franca Okpo, Hon Victor Aleke, Chief John Igboke, Chief Ekuma Igbota, Chief Amah Ugo Orji, Chief Abia Onyike, among many other stakeholders of the party in the state.

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2027: ‘Peter Obi must not die’ — Igbo Group warns of catastrophic consequences

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Peter Obi, Presidential candidate of NDC
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Njiko Igbo Forum, an affiliate of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has issued a stern warning ahead of the 2027 general elections, cautioning that it will be catastrophic should anything happen to Mr Peter Obi.

It could be recalled that Obi, on Wednesday, raised the alarm that his life was under threat.

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, raised fears that he may not be alive in 2027 to be part of the election.

However, in a statement issued on Thursday, Rev Dr Okechukwu Christopher Obioha, Leader, Njiko Igbo Forum Nigeria, he warned that should anything happen to Obi or he was not in the ballot, the reaction and result would be very catastrophic.

Obioha said the caution was part of the decision taken during an emergency meeting held today, Thursday, in Enugu.

The Forum said, “That we have seen the viral video made by His Excellency, Mr Peter Gregory Obi, speaking on a number of issues, he expressed serious concern that his life is in danger.

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“For him to have gone to the extent of saying he might not be alive before the 16th of January 2027, speaks volumes both in our polity and in the country at large.

“We have seen him in the past, spoke about the federal government trying to frustrate and targeting him not to be in the ballot.

“We have also observed over a period of time that the presidency or the federal government led by President Tinubu does not want Peter Obi to be in the ballot.”

While drawing the attention of the Presidency, Nigeria and the world to those allegations, Njiko Igbo Forum declared that “if anything happens to Mr Peter Gregory Obi or finally his name is not in the ballot for the 16th January, 2026 presidential election, the reaction and result will be very catastrophic and may adversely affect the continued unity in diversity of this country Nigeria.”

It further stated that the Igbo had been very quiet, pushed to the wall, segregated against, marked out everywhere, chased about and even tried to take their possessions.

Njiko Igbo Forum cautioned that keeping quiet does not mean the Igbo are cowards.

It said the ruling government should not forget that for any democracy to thrive, there must be a viral opposition in the polity.

“There is no reason, for what we have seen in the process or polity in trailing Peter Obi and going to an extent of chasing him through all the political parties and now wanting to kill him.

“This outcry by Mr Peter Gregory Obi, must not be taken lightly and request as a matter of urgent National importance, that an urgent investigation panel be constituted to verify Mr Peter Obi’s allegations.

“We are strongly stating again that, nothing should happen to Mr Peter Gregory Obi.

“Yes, Chief Awolowo said, before Nigeria he was of the Yoruba Nation. The same way we are saying before Peter Obi is of Nigeria, he is of the Igbo.

“Mr Peter Gregory Obi will live and become the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2027,” it declared.

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I might not be alive to contest in 2027 – Peter Obi raises alarm over threats to his life

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Peter Obi not arrested by DSS – Aide
Peter Obi, NDC Presidential candidate
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Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Mr Peter Obi, has cried out over alleged threat to his life.

Obi, who is a major contender ahead of the 2027 presidential election said he might not be alive to participate in the election.

According to him, there is obvious attack on everything that had to do with him, including his life.

The former Anambra state governor made the allegation during a podcast with Chude Jideonwo.

“The way they are going now I might not be alive,  I’m telling you every single thing I do for a living this government is frustrating it deliberately so.

“Everything, so there’s even a possibility if they have opportunity I will not be alive. I get frustrations every day because you do things that may think it may be normal it is not normal they won’t come directly and say oh we are doing this but you could see their hand in eventually everything.

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“The government is attacking everybody, I am being attacked personally even to provide me with things I am entitled to, not at all,” he said.

He recalled how his vehicle was clamped down at the airport while he was right there, whereas other vehicles lined up on the same spot were untouched.

Obi further that stated that even close associates were beginning to avoid him over fear of government clampdown.

He disclosed that friends now send him invitations for occasions but tell him not to bother attending.

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Voters reward performance as APC sweeps Ekiti, dominates Bye-Elections nationwide — Yilwatda

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Professor Nentawe Yilwatda
Professor Nentawe Yilwatda
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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has described the resounding victory of Governor Biodun Oyebanji in the Ekiti State Governorship Election and the party’s impressive performance in the recent bye-elections across the country as a clear vote of confidence in the APC, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the ongoing reforms being implemented to reposition Nigeria for sustainable growth and prosperity.

Prof. Yilwatda stated that the outcome of the elections demonstrates that Nigerians are able to distinguish between temporary economic challenges associated with reforms and the long-term benefits of responsible governance, economic restructuring, infrastructure development and institutional renewal being championed by the APC at both federal and state levels.

According to the National Chairman:

“The overwhelming victory recorded by our great party in Ekiti State and our remarkable success in the bye-elections across the country represent a powerful endorsement of the APC’s governance philosophy. These results affirm that Nigerians appreciate leadership that prioritises development, accountability, stability and the welfare of the people.”

“The people of Ekiti State have once again demonstrated that performance remains the most potent campaign message in democratic politics. Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s resounding re-election is a reward for visionary leadership, inclusive governance, prudent management of resources and visible developmental achievements across the state.”

Governor Oyebanji of the APC was declared winner of the Ekiti Governorship Election after securing a commanding victory across the state, reaffirming the confidence of the electorate in his administration and the APC’s developmental agenda. The party also recorded significant victories in five of the six bye-elections conducted across various states of the federation.

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Prof. Yilwatda, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, noted that the Ekiti result has further strengthened the APC’s narrative that performance-based governance remains electorally rewarding, even amid difficult economic transitions.

“The Ekiti election has become a national reference point. It confirms that when governments deliver tangible results in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment, security and social development, citizens respond with renewed trust and overwhelming electoral support.”

“This victory sends a clear message that governance, not propaganda, remains the most effective route to political legitimacy. The people of Ekiti have spoken loudly and clearly in support of continuity, stability and progress.”

The APC National Chairman described Ekiti State under Governor Oyebanji as one of the most compelling governance success stories in contemporary Nigeria, citing sustained investments in road infrastructure, rural development, human capital advancement, healthcare delivery, agricultural productivity, workers’ welfare and ease of doing business.

He said the administration has successfully built broad-based political consensus while maintaining a strong focus on development outcomes, thereby creating an environment of stability and accelerated progress.

“Ekiti today stands as a shining example of how APC governments are translating public trust into measurable development outcomes. The state’s progress under Governor Oyebanji provides a practical demonstration of our party’s commitment to people-centred governance.”

Prof. Yilwatda further stated that the election outcomes should be viewed within the broader national context of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda, which is gradually laying the foundation for a more resilient, productive and globally competitive Nigerian economy.

“Despite inheriting deep structural challenges, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated courage and vision in implementing reforms that are necessary for Nigeria’s long-term prosperity. The confidence reposed in our party by voters across the country indicates growing public understanding and appreciation of these reforms and their future benefits.”
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“These victories are therefore not only electoral successes; they are validations of a governing philosophy anchored on bold leadership, responsible decision-making and sustainable development.”

The National Chairman congratulated President Tinubu, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, APC leaders and members in Ekiti State and across the federation, as well as all candidates who emerged victorious in the bye-elections.

He also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and the people of Ekiti State for the peaceful conduct of the election.

Prof. Yilwatda assured Nigerians that the APC would remain focused on delivering good governance at all levels and deepening democratic dividends for citizens across the country.

“Our message to Nigerians is simple: we have heard your voices, we appreciate your confidence and we shall continue to justify the trust you have placed in our party through impactful governance, economic renewal and inclusive national development.”

“The APC remains committed to building a stronger, more prosperous and more united Nigeria. The victories recorded in Ekiti and the bye-elections reinforce our resolve to work even harder in service to the Nigerian people.”

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