As Ebonyi State prepares for the August 22, 2026 local government chairmanship and councillorship elections, the political landscape is filled with expectations, but also growing concerns. The Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission (EBSIEC) has issued a firm warning against violence, thuggery, and any act capable of undermining the credibility of the electoral process.
The question now is whether political actors and their supporters will respect that call.
Local government elections are the foundation of grassroots governance. They determine who oversees local development, manages community needs, improves basic infrastructure, and represents the interests of residents. However, in many cases, these elections have been reduced to contests of influence, where intimidation replaces ideas and political loyalty is sometimes valued above competence.
This year’s election carries even greater significance. The emergence of high-profile candidates, including Osborn Umahi, son of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate for Ohaozara Local Government Area, highlights the growing importance attached to local government positions.
When influential figures enter grassroots politics, it shows that local government leadership is no longer viewed as a minor political role. These positions now carry significant influence and can shape future political ambitions.
But with influence comes responsibility. The concern is that political power can sometimes attract unhealthy competition, where supporters become more focused on control than service.
Across Ebonyi, political parties including the APC, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and African Democratic Congress (ADC) have intensified preparations for the polls. The ADC, after conducting primaries across the 13 local government areas, declared its intention to challenge the existing political structure, while the APC’s dominance in previous local government elections has positioned it as a major force.
However, electoral strength must not become an excuse for complacency. Democracy thrives when competition is based on ideas, performance, and public trust—not intimidation.
Recent political movements, including defections and internal crises within some parties, also reveal deeper concerns about party structures and internal democracy. When political parties struggle to manage disagreements internally, it can affect how they approach general elections.
Governor Francis Nwifuru’s response to security challenges in parts of the state has shown that his administration is willing to take decisive action. Following the killing of five people in Okporojo community, the government took disciplinary measures against some political and traditional leaders connected to the area.
However, preventing electoral violence requires more than reacting after incidents occur. It requires early intervention, effective monitoring, and a commitment from all stakeholders.
The PDP, after resolving its leadership crisis with the emergence of Peter Nwele as state chairman, now faces the task of rebuilding public confidence and proving its readiness for a fair contest. Recent defections from the party have also raised questions about its political stability.
So, what must Ebonyi do?
First, political parties must prioritize competence and integrity when selecting candidates. Elections should not become a platform for individuals with questionable backgrounds or violent networks to gain power.
Second, EBSIEC must ensure adequate security and monitoring across all 13 local government areas and 171 wards. A credible election requires a safe environment where citizens can freely make their choices
Third, civil society organizations, religious institutions, and the media must educate voters and demand accountability from candidates. The most important question should be: What will you do for the people? — not Who is backing you?
Finally, voters must reject intimidation and choose candidates based on character, capacity, and vision.
The people of Ebonyi have experienced the consequences of insecurity and poor leadership. From communal disputes to violent incidents, the cost of weak governance is too high. Local government leaders are expected to be problem-solvers and community builders, not sources of conflict.
August 22 is more than an election date; it is a defining moment for Ebonyi’s democracy.
Will the state choose leaders committed to service, or allow political aggression to overshadow the people’s choice?
The decision belongs to the electorate.
Democracy cannot survive where violence dominates. Ebonyi must choose progress over chaos, service over intimidation, and leaders over thugs.
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