By Amaka Okafor
The Ebonyi State Government has fired back at critics of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, describing recent media attacks, alleged sponsored narratives and protests against the administration as “poorly coordinated” distractions designed to derail the governor’s development agenda.
The government via the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation Ikeuwa Omebeh in Abakaliki on Wednesday ,urged Ebonyians to remain calm and discerning, insisting that the allegations and negative narratives being circulated were not supported by facts or the realities on ground.
Omebeh said the government respected the constitutional right of citizens to express their opinions and embark on peaceful protests, but warned that such rights should not be abused by individuals or groups allegedly seeking to mislead the public, create tension or undermine the administration.
According to him, Governor Nwifuru has, since assuming office, remained focused on improving the lives of the people through massive investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, workers’ welfare, human capital development, rural development and empowerment programmes.
He said the administration’s programmes were anchored on the People’s Charter of Needs, which, according to him, places the aspirations, interests and welfare of Ebonyians at the centre of governance.
The commissioner said: “It is therefore not surprising that an administration actively delivering projects and programmes across the State may attract political opposition. What is unacceptable, however, is the attempt to substitute facts with propaganda, development with misinformation, and constructive criticism with politically motivated attacks.”
He urged Ebonyians to look beyond social media narratives and judge the administration by its record, challenging citizens to visit project sites and interact with beneficiaries. “Development is not measured by the volume of criticism it generates, but by its impact on the lives of the people,” he declared.
Omebeh further assured that the governor remained “focused and undistracted” despite the mounting criticisms, stressing that Nwifuru would not allow political theatrics or sponsored attacks to divert his attention from governance.
He appealed to youths and other residents to reject misinformation and support constructive engagement, saying Ebonyi needed unity and development-focused criticism rather than “manufactured controversies,” while stressing that the government remained open to legitimate criticism and suggestions in the interest of the state.
