The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Ebonyi State has sounded the alarm over an alleged scheme to intimidate and attack its senatorial candidate, Ifeanyi Eleje, ahead of the upcoming bye-election. The party disclosed this concerning development in a press statement issued by Samuel Agwu, the Director of the Odohzia Ebonyi Campaign Council.
The statement implicates suspected thugs, purportedly loyal to Uchenna Ibiam, the chairman of Afikpo North local government area, in a plot to disrupt APGA campaigns in the region. It alleges that Ibiam warned APGA against holding political rallies in the local government without seeking clearance from him, implying potential danger if the party proceeds with its campaign activities as directed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
APGA has taken decisive action in response to these threats, petitioning both security agencies and INEC for immediate intervention. The party has emphasized the imperative of ensuring Eleje’s safety during the campaign period, advocating for adequate security from law enforcement to safeguard the candidate from any form of harm.
As tension mounts in the lead-up to the bye-election, APGA’s resolve to resist intimidation and violence underscores the critical role of maintaining a peaceful and democratic electoral process. The party’s unwavering stance against the disruptive tactics of rival political factions serves as a testament to its commitment to upholding the principles of free and fair elections.
The allegations remain unaddressed by Mr. Uchenna Ibiam, the implicated chairman of Afikpo North LGA, as he has yet to respond to the accusations. With the looming specter of political unrest, the spotlight now shifts to the response of relevant authorities and the broader implications for the integrity of the electoral process in Ebonyi State.
