Spokesperson for the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Ebonyi State, Emma Igwe has refuted rumours of his defection to the All Progressives Congress, APC.
Igwe was reacting to a publication by a media organisation with the headline: “2027: Odii’s Spokesman Storms APC Stakeholders’ Meeting, Fuels Defection Rumours in Ebonyi.”
He said he read the publication “with considerable amusement,” but felt compelled to respond to it to make clarifications.
“Ordinarily, I would not dignify such speculation with a response. However, considering the deliberate attempt to attach political meaning to an entirely ordinary encounter, I consider it necessary to put the facts straight,” he said.
Clarifying his presence at the Ecumenical Centre, Anyichuks spokesman said he was there on a personal mission that had nothing to do with politics.
“Earlier, a message was circulated in the WhatsApp group of former members of the State Executive Council who served under the administration of His Excellency, former Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. David Nweze Umahi, inviting members to a town hall meeting with the former governor scheduled for 1:00 p.m. at the Ecumenical Centre, Abakaliki.
“I deliberately ignored the invitation because I understood the political interpretations that political neophytes and desperate commentators might attach to my presence at such a gathering, particularly at this sensitive period of political permutations ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
“However, I had a personal matter to discuss with Rev. Father Abraham Nwali. When he informed me that he was at the Ecumenical Centre, I proceeded there to attend to the matter.
“Upon arrival, I had no reason to avoid exchanging pleasantries with friends, associates and respected personalities whom I encountered.
“Among those I exchanged pleasantries with were the former Governor Deputy Ebonyi state , Prof. Chigozie Ogbu; Senator Julius Ali Ucha; Hon. Innocent Ugo Chima; members of the Christian Association of Nigeria leadership in Ebonyi State; the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and TUC; traditional rulers HrH Iyioku and several other distinguished Ebonyi indigenes.
“Interestingly, the Master of Ceremonies repeatedly announced my name, apparently drawing attention to my presence.
I eventually made my way out of the hall before the commencement of the event.
I am pleased with the enthusiasm displayed by many Ebonyians who were happy to catch a glimpse of me after more than three years.
“Their warm reception was encouraging, but it should not be misconstrued as a political declaration or an indication of any change in my political allegiance.”
Igwe insisted that he has no plans to defect to the APC, restating his committment to governorship ambition of Chief Odii.
“Let me state categorically that I am not contemplating defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC), not even in the nearest future.
“I remain firmly committed to the political aspiration of Chief Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, popularly known as Anyichuks, and the vision of the movement I proudly represent ” he said.
Wondering why exchange of pleasantries with political leaders and friends should be interpreted as defection, Igwe said politics should not be reduced to hostility.
“It is unfortunate that a simple act of exchanging pleasantries with political leaders and friends has become material for sensational headlines.
“Must political relationships in Ebonyi State be reduced to hostility, suspicion and unnecessary conspiracy theories?
“I have always maintained that politics should not destroy friendships, family relationships or the bonds that hold our society together. We must learn to disagree politically without becoming enemies,” he said.
Igwe congratulated the over 3,000 people who have indicated interest in joining the Anyichuks movement.
“Their enthusiasm and confidence in the vision of Chief Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii are encouraging.
“Our doors remain open to every Ebonyi citizen who believes in competent leadership, economic transformation, inclusiveness and a better future for our state.”
He advised those spreading rumours of his defection because ordinary social interactions to “concentrate on issues that genuinely matter to Ebonyians rather than reading political meanings into every handshake, greeting or chance encounter.”
He said the 2027 governorship election should be about ideas, capacity, competence, development and the future of Ebonyi State, not bitterness, intimidation or manufactured controversies.
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