The Ebonyi State Government has urged residents to disregard what it described as sponsored media narratives, political attacks and poorly coordinated protests targeted at the administration of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.
The Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Barr. Chief Ikeuwa Omebeh, made the call in a statement issued on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.
Omebeh acknowledged the constitutional right of citizens to express their views and participate in peaceful protests, but cautioned against what he described as the abuse of such rights to mislead the public, create tension or undermine the administration’s development efforts.
According to him, recent negative narratives against the governor and his administration were not supported by facts or the realities on the ground, urging Ebonyians to remain calm and discerning.
The commissioner said Governor Nwifuru had, since assuming office, demonstrated commitment to the development and welfare of the state through investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, human capital development, workers’ welfare, rural development, empowerment programmes and other social interventions.
He said the administration’s programmes were anchored on the People’s Charter of Needs, which places the aspirations and welfare of Ebonyi residents at the centre of governance.
Omebeh noted that while political opposition was expected in a democratic society, attempts to substitute facts with propaganda and constructive criticism with politically motivated attacks should not be encouraged.
He further urged residents to assess the administration based on its record of performance, particularly ongoing road projects, rehabilitation of schools and healthcare facilities, workers’ welfare initiatives, rural development projects and empowerment programmes.
“Development is not measured by the volume of criticism it generates, but by its impact on the lives of the people,” he said.
The commissioner encouraged Ebonyians to visit project sites and communities and interact directly with beneficiaries of government programmes rather than rely solely on social media narratives.
He assured residents that Governor Nwifuru remained focused on his mandate and would not be distracted by what he described as political theatrics, sponsored attacks or attempts to divert his attention from governance.
Omebeh also called for unity, constructive engagement and development-focused criticism, stressing that Ebonyi needed collective efforts to sustain its development.
He said the government remained open to legitimate criticism and constructive suggestions, but maintained that such criticism should be based on facts, patriotism and genuine concern for the common good.
The commissioner particularly appealed to youths in the state to remain discerning and avoid being used as instruments for interests that could undermine the collective aspirations of Ebonyi.
He reaffirmed that Governor Nwifuru remained focused on governance and development, adding that the people of Ebonyi remained the ultimate beneficiaries of the administration’s programmes.
