A traditional ruler in Ebonyi State, HRH Eze Paul Ogodo Egbe (Mgbomeze II) of Agalegu Ishieke Autonomous Community in Ebonyi Local Government Area, has cautioned political stakeholders against divisive politics, name-calling and actions capable of threatening the unity of the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The monarch, in a statement titled “Advice from the Palace of a Concerned Traditional Ruler to All Political Stakeholders in Ebonyi State Ahead of 2027,” expressed concern over what he described as growing political tension and increasing acrimony among political actors in the state.
He particularly lamented the emerging divisions within the Izhi Clan, saying political differences should not be allowed to destroy family ties and longstanding communal relationships.
“As we approach the 2027 general elections, I see the signs of tension in our land. I hear the harsh words and perceive acrimony in various political enclaves. I see our Izhi Clan, which is one blood, now divided by kindred lines and name-calling. This worries me deeply,” he stated.
The royal father urged members of different political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and others, to place the collective interest of Ebonyi State above partisan considerations.
According to him, political parties are merely vehicles for governance, while the development and future of Ebonyi State remain the ultimate objective.
“Ebonyi State, our farmlands, our markets, our children’s future – that is the destination. No party should burn down the house just to win the keys. Let us disagree without becoming enemies,” he advised.
Eze Egbe further appealed to politicians and their supporters to refrain from statements and actions capable of causing lasting divisions among families and communities.
He noted that while elections and political contests are temporary, family relationships and communal bonds endure beyond political seasons.
“Politics will end after elections. But your brother, your cousin, your in-law will remain. Do not say today what will make you ashamed to attend the same funeral tomorrow,” he said.
The monarch also condemned the increasing trend of personal attacks and abusive rhetoric in political discourse, stressing that meaningful political engagement should focus on policies and developmental issues rather than character assassination.
“A man with good ideas does not need insults. When we attack persons instead of policies, we tell the world we have nothing to offer,” he stated.
He called on political leaders to demonstrate maturity and restraint, warning that the younger generation often mirrors the conduct of their leaders.
According to him, promoting violence, intolerance and hostility during campaigns could leave future generations with a legacy of conflict, while embracing dialogue and mutual respect would foster peace and development.
The traditional ruler further reminded public office holders and aspirants that political power is transient, emphasizing that reputation and character outlive political positions.
“Governors, senators, commissioners and every other political office holder today may be private citizens tomorrow. But the name you make for yourself in this season will follow your children,” he said.
Eze Egbe also expressed concern over the activities of some social media influencers and political supporters whom he accused of fueling tensions through inflammatory posts and propaganda.
He described such conduct as unacceptable and urged those involved to desist from actions capable of inciting political, clan or communal conflicts.
“The social media handlers and online political jobbers are not helping matters either, as the majority of them are hell-bent on heating up the polity, inciting one political party against another, as well as one clan or kindred against the other.
This is quite barbaric and unacceptable and should cease henceforth,” he added.
The monarch advised political actors to campaign based on issues, ideas and programmes, rather than resorting to intimidation, insults or violence.
He expressed hope that the 2027 elections in Ebonyi State would be remembered for political maturity, peaceful coexistence and issue-based campaigns.
“Let 2027 in Ebonyi be remembered as the election where maturity defeated tension; where Izhi Clan showed Nigeria that we can disagree at noon and still eat from the same bowl at night,” he said.
He prayefor peace, unity and stability in Ebonyi State as political activities ahead of the elections continue to gather momentum.
