The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has intervened in a growing political rift among stakeholders in Ebonyi Central, urging unity, restraint, and alignment with the state leadership ahead of the next election cycle.
Umahi’s move followed the circulation of a video on April 24, 2026, showing a disagreement between the senator representing Ebonyi Central, Ken Eze, and a National Assembly aspirant from Ikwo Local Government Area, Christian Asaga Nwali.
This was contained in a statement on Sunday, by Francis Nwaze, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Minister.
The incident occurred during a burial ceremony and sparked debate over succession plans for the senatorial seat.
Concerned about the implications of the development, Umahi—who described both figures as his political mentees—convened a peace meeting on April 26 to restore calm and reinforce cohesion within the political fold.
Speaking after the meeting, the minister commended both leaders for demonstrating respect and willingness to resolve the misunderstanding, which he attributed largely to actions of their supporters rather than the principals themselves.
He recalled that an earlier zoning arrangement предусaged the rotation of the Ebonyi Central senatorial seat to Ikwo after the current tenure, a decision linked to the administration of former governor Martin Elechi.
However, he stressed that political realities could evolve and must be managed collectively.
Umahi advised both camps to maintain peace and escalate their concerns through appropriate leadership channels, particularly the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru.
According to him, a structured engagement involving the governor and representatives from both Ezza and Ikwo blocs would provide a fair and lasting resolution, noting that political opportunities remain open for all groups over time.
Shifting focus to broader political objectives, the minister underscored the importance of unity in delivering overwhelming electoral support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He revealed that the state is targeting over 95 per cent of votes for Tinubu’s re-election, citing ongoing federal projects as justification for continued backing.
Umahi emphasized that all political calculations, including National Assembly contests, must align with the strategic goal of maximizing votes for the president, adding that consultations are ongoing to produce consensus candidates.
He also reaffirmed strong support for Governor Nwifuru, describing his position as non-negotiable and warning against any political challenge, while reiterating commitment to established tenure arrangements in the state.
In their separate remarks, both Eze and Nwali welcomed the minister’s intervention and pledged to uphold peace.
They called on their supporters, particularly on social media, to avoid inflammatory comments and respect party leaders, emphasizing unity and collective progress in Ebonyi State.