Ebonyi State denies rift between governor and Wike

The Ebonyi State Government has denied reports of a rift between Governor Francis Nwifuru and the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, dismissing claims that the governor threatened the minister during a political rally last month. In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 7, State Commissioner for Information and State Orientation Ikeuwa Omebeh clarified that Governor Nwifuru's remarks at a June 15 rally were directed at opposition figures, not the minister, and accused factions of the Peoples Democratic Party of distorting the governor's words to create political tension.

The controversy stems from a grand endorsement rally for President Bola Tinubu and other All Progressives Congress candidates held at the Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium in Abakaliki. According to the state government, Governor Nwifuru cautioned individuals he said were spreading false information and propaganda while claiming to act on behalf of Minister Wike. The governor was reported to have used the word "consume" in his speech, which the commissioner explained was a metaphorical expression indicating that those operating outside the law would face legal consequences if they did not desist.