The Ebonyi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has commenced its campaign activities ahead of the August 22 local government elections, beginning with a rally in Ikwo Local Government Area.
The party said the campaign would focus on strong grassroots mobilisation and securing support across the state’s 13 local government areas and 171 wards.
APC leaders from Ikwo and other parts of Ebonyi urged party members to intensify efforts toward voter mobilisation, particularly by encouraging eligible citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to boost the party’s chances at the polls.
Governor Francis Nwifuru, during the presentation of the party’s flag to its chairmanship candidate, Chidi Nwode, charged members and supporters to remain united and work collectively for victory.
The governor described the APC candidates for chairmanship and councillorship positions as credible individuals with proven records, urging supporters to focus on issue-based campaigns and avoid actions that could disrupt the peaceful conduct of the elections.
“We have presented these candidates to you, and it is your duty to introduce them to the communities and make them acceptable to the people. They are the best choices we have presented, so do not be distracted by negative propaganda,” Nwifuru said.
He also praised the outgoing Ikwo council chairman, Sunday Nwankwo, for his contributions to peace, unity and development in the area, saying his administration created a strong foundation for the next leadership.
Former Ebonyi governor and chairman of the occasion, Martin Elechi, advised political actors to ensure campaigns remain peaceful, stressing that elections should not become a platform for hostility or intimidation.
Elechi urged citizens to respect one another’s political choices and expressed confidence that the APC would perform well due to the support enjoyed by the current administration.
The Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Moses Odunwa, also appealed to party supporters to back APC candidates while encouraging residents to maintain peace before, during and after the election.
Similarly, Chinedu Ogah, the lawmaker representing Ikwo/Ezza South Federal Constituency, described the campaign launch as the beginning of wider political mobilisation efforts across Ebonyi State.
(NAN)