AEISCID Urges Ebonyi Governor to Embrace Constructive Criticism, Prioritise People-Oriented Policies
ABAKALIKI/Nigeria: A governance and accountability group, the Association of Ebonyi Indigenes Socio-Cultural in the Diaspora (AEISCID), has cautioned the administration of Governor Francis Nwifuru against silencing opposition voices in the state. The group has called for a shift from what it described as “directionless” governance to a more inclusive and focused approach.
In a statement released on Sunday, AEISCID’s President-General, Ambassador Pascal Oluchukwu, expressed concern over recent exchanges between the Ebonyi State Government and Chief Ifeanyi Odii, the 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The statement described Odii as a respected industrialist whose contributions to the state should not be dismissed through personal attacks or inflammatory rhetoric.
“The government’s media handlers should learn to address criticisms with facts and evidence rather than resorting to name-calling and insults,” Oluchukwu remarked. He further criticised a group operating under the banner of ‘Unwuekumenyi Forum’, labelling their attacks on Odii as “reprehensible and condemnable.”
AEISCID urged the state government to prioritise policies that address the welfare and needs of the poor masses, cautioning against lavish spending on projects that lack direct impact on the lives of Ebonyi residents. The group specifically criticised the airport project initiated by the previous administration, calling it a “white elephant” venture unsuited to a state grappling with widespread poverty.
Highlighting the importance of constructive opposition in a democratic system, Oluchukwu warned against stifling dissenting voices. “Democracy thrives on a plurality of opinions. Silencing opposition risks derailing the government’s ability to effectively serve its people,” he said.
The statement demanded a public apology from the ‘Unwuekumenyi Forum’ for their disparaging comments about Chief Odii. It also called on the Nwifuru administration to reassess its policy direction and focus on initiatives that genuinely improve the lives of Ebonyi citizens.
“We urge the government to address the pressing concerns raised by well-meaning Ebonyians, including the PDP candidate, and to demonstrate accountability and transparency in its policies,” Oluchukwu concluded.
The AEISCID reiterated its commitment to advocating for good governance and ensuring that the interests of the people remain at the forefront of state policies.
