The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Ebonyi State, Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, has dismissed claims suggesting that he plans to abandon his 2027 ambition and support Governor Francis Nwifuru.
Odii stated categorically that he would never, under any circumstances, step down from the 2027 governorship contest, saying that any publication suggesting otherwise was false and did not represent his position.
This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by his spokesperson, Emmanuel Igwe, and made available to journalists in Abakaliki.
According to him, Odii remains committed to the 2027 governorship contest, and no political discussion, persuasion or negotiation by any individual could be presented as a decision to abandon his ambition.
“The publication suggesting that Anyichuks will withdraw is viewed by the Odii camp as a political narrative coming from those opposed to his candidacy.
“Those responsible for such claims should produce the evidence upon which they based their assertion. Where no statement exists from Chief Odii announcing a withdrawal, the public should not be misled into believing that such a decision has been made.
“Journalists and bloggers are advised to exercise the highest level of professionalism when reporting political developments. There is a fundamental difference between reporting that a politician intends to persuade Chief Odii to withdraw and reporting that Chief Odii has agreed to withdraw.
“The first is an expression of another person’s intention. The second is a claim about Chief Odii’s decision and requires evidence.
“The media has a responsibility to inform the public accurately and should not manufacture political decisions on behalf of candidates.
“We therefore call on the publishers of the story to retract or prominently correct the publication within 24 hours, unless they can produce an authentic statement from Chief Odii establishing that he has decided to withdraw.
“Failure to distinguish political speculation from verified fact is inconsistent with responsible journalism.
“Journalists, bloggers and social media publishers are reminded that freedom of expression carries responsibilities under Nigerian law.
“While warning anyone publishing material online, [they] should acquaint themselves with the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015, as amended, as well as other applicable laws governing unlawful online publications, harassment, threats and defamatory material.”
Ebonyi: ODII dismisses claim of stepping down in 2027 guber election