PDP Candidate Insists He Is Not Stepping Down for Ebonyi Governor

The Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate for the February 6, 2027 election in Ebonyi State, Chief Ifeanyi Odii, has rejected claims that he has stepped down for Governor Francis Nwifuru. He stressed that he is still in the race.

Odii stated that he is committed to winning the election and addressing hunger and poverty in the state. He made it clear that he will not withdraw for anyone.

He shared this during a press meeting in his hometown of Isu, located in the Onicha Local Government Area, on Sunday.

Odii mentioned that his party gave him the ticket to contest because they believed he could provide better governance. He said the people of Ebonyi are looking for improved leadership. He labeled the claims about stepping down as political tricks, which he attributed to the Minister of Works, David Umahi.

“My party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), gave me its mandate through consensus. This means they found me suitable, but there was a need for intervention. Therefore, I am running to be the governor of Ebonyi State because I have a lot to offer in government. Regarding stepping down, I see that as just political tricks. We should not undermine democracy. Everyone knows what the Constitution says, whether they are in the APC or PDP or even if they are my uncle.

“I respect him, but he has not asked me to step down. I don’t think he should. I am running, and I want to say that I am still in the race. I am not giving up. You should know me by now. You know my journey and how things have been. I am not worried about the election for myself. I have people who believe in me. I care deeply about making things better. When I see what is happening in Ebonyi, it makes me sad.

“We should focus on issues that matter to the people, like the betterment of Ebonyi, not just for today but for the future. We need good governance. Everyone should care about it. A hungry person does not care if they are from the South or North. When you are hungry, you know it. We want to bring a government that will say goodbye to hunger in Ebonyi State. The government we want will create jobs, whether in media or other fields. That is what I stand for.

“We are doing door-to-door campaigns and reaching out to people. Remember, I have a platform. I discuss family life, and you know the world is now about social media. I have nearly three million followers on my social media platforms, with fans all over the world. I engage with them daily. When we announce our campaign flag-off, you will see the response.

“I want to be with my family and those who believe in me. Every voter in Ebonyi State matters. I have many admirers, and people love me in the South-East. Those on tricycles and motorcycles are branded with my name and images, so they recognize me. They come out to greet me,” he said.

Odii also promised to improve access to medical education, boost professional skills, and build a strong team of health workers for the state. “Records from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria show that out of about 80,000 medical practitioners registered, only around 55,000 practice in Nigeria. Many are working in the US, Europe, the Middle East, and other places.

“This loss of skilled professionals is a big burden on our healthcare system. Nigeria's doctor-to-population ratio shows the extent of the problem. Reports reveal a significant gap between the number of doctors available and the needs of our growing population. In some states, the shortage is especially serious.

“Behind these numbers are real people: mothers needing safe deliveries, children needing timely medical care, families struggling to get specialist attention, and communities depending on qualified health workers. The results are tragic. Preventable diseases continue to take lives, and maternal and infant mortality are still big public health issues,” Odii stated.

He explained that he is running for the governorship to lead the state towards progress, prosperity, and sustainable development.

“I am asking for the votes of my brothers and sisters, our parents, and every registered voter in Ebonyi State. I believe our state can achieve much more, and I am ready to work with our people to set Ebonyi on a renewed path of progress, prosperity, and sustainable development.

“Having traveled to many places and seen how things work, I understand that real progress is possible when leaders are dedicated and institutions are well managed. Think of our medical professionals who train in Nigeria.”