The immediate past governor of Ebonyi State and current Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has declared that he has no intention of contesting the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership or party structure in Ebonyi State with Governor Francis Nwifuru.
Umahi made this statement during the official flag-off ceremony for the construction of the Cross River–Ebonyi–Benue–Nasarawa–Abuja Super Highway, held at Amuro Mgbom Primary School in Afikpo Local Government Area of the state.
Speaking to a crowd of party supporters, traditional rulers, and government officials, Umahi addressed recent rumors circulating in the state that suggested he was planning to reclaim control over the Ebonyi APC Structure from his successor.
“Let me make it clear to everyone: I am not here to cause any confusion or contest anything,” Umahi said. “Governor Nwifuru is the undisputed leader of the APC in Ebonyi. He is in charge, and I fully support him. I was the governor for eight years, and I managed the party structures during my time. But that time has passed. I have moved on.”
Umahi also addressed accusations from some political actors who claimed he was behind efforts to divide the party by trying to influence upcoming party congresses.
“Some hungry politicians are trying to create tension in Ebonyi for their own selfish gains. But I am not available for political mischief. I have been used in the past, but never again,” he added.
The Minister of Works emphasized that the Ebonyi APC Structure now belongs to Governor Nwifuru, and that the current administration has his full blessing and backing. “I can’t be a distraction to the governor. When you start your party congresses and conventions, don’t expect to see me. I’ll be in Dubai,” Umahi said, drawing laughter from the audience.
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He also dismissed claims that Governor Nwifuru signed a one-term agreement with the party before becoming governor. “There is no such agreement—none whatsoever. I supported him without placing any conditions on him. I believe in his leadership. His eight years as governor are assured,” he said.
Umahi praised Governor Nwifuru’s leadership style, describing him as one of the luckiest governors the state has produced. “When I was in office, I faced a lot of opposition and had to fight many battles. But Governor Nwifuru is enjoying a united party with little to no opposition. That’s a big blessing,” he stated.
He commended Nwifuru’s efforts to bring the state together and urged him to ignore critics who try to undermine his work. “People are quick to criticize leaders while they are in office. When I was governor, people said I wasn’t doing anything. But now, they’ve started praising my administration. The same thing will happen to you. Just stay focused and continue delivering for our people,” Umahi advised.
He concluded by expressing confidence in the future of the state and the APC under Nwifuru’s leadership. “The Ebonyi APC Structure is in good hands. You have my full support, and more importantly, the support of the people. Stay strong, stay united, and keep working for Ebonyi’s growth.”
