The Special Assistant to Ebonyi State Governor on Inter-Party Affairs, Comrade Sunday Nwambam, on Monday condemned what he described as the exploitation of bereavement for political purposes, urging political actors and residents of the state to place humanity above partisan interests as campaigns gather momentum.
Addressing journalists in Abakaliki, Nwambam criticised attempts to politicise the attendance of Governor Francis Nwifuru at burial ceremonies by one Nwoba Chika Nwoba, an alleged Ebonyi born controversial social media commentator, saying death should never be used as a tool for political attacks.
Quoting Iraqi human rights activist Nadia Murad, he said, "The world has only one border called humanity. The difference between us is small compared with our humanity; put humanity first."
According to him, the quote aptly reflected the need for compassion and unity, particularly during moments of grief.
Nwambam accused a social media commentator, Chika Nwoba, of circulating what he described as misleading narratives against the governor over the latter's representation at a burial ceremony by his deputy.
"In all cultures and traditions, politics are incompatible with death. That is why the phrase 'do not play politics with death' has remained a common political sentiment," he said.
"It is unfortunate that anyone would accuse the governor of anti-party activities simply because he delegated his deputy to represent him at a burial ceremony he was invited to attend. A burial is not a political rally. Moments of grief should unite people regardless of political affiliation."
The governor's aide urged Ebonyi people to continue showing solidarity with one another during both joyful and difficult moments, irrespective of political differences.
"As Ebonyians, we are brothers and sisters before politics. I encourage our people to continue sharing in one another's grief and celebrations without allowing political divisions to erode our common humanity," he stated.
Nwambam also expressed concern over reports of alleged politically motivated violence at Ikwuato Idembia in Ezza South Local Government Area during the weekend.
He called on all parties involved to seek lawful means of resolving disputes by reporting incidents to relevant security agencies for proper investigation.
"If the reports are true, I appeal to all concerned to follow due process and allow security agencies to carry out thorough investigations. Every form of political violence and unhealthy inter-party rivalry remains unacceptable," he said.
The governor's aide reiterated that the administration of Governor Francis Nwifuru remained committed to protecting the rights of citizens to freely associate with political parties of their choice.
"It has been the tradition of this administration to allow citizens to identify freely with political parties irrespective of personal interests. That position has not changed, and the government condemns every form of political violence," he added.
Nwambam also expressed concern over reports that some members of the Correspondents' Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) were affected during the incident.
He stressed the need to safeguard press freedom, describing the media as an indispensable pillar of democracy.
"Democracy and a free press are inseparable. Journalists must be protected by all political actors as campaigns commence ahead of the next general elections," he said.
He further advised political parties and their leaders to conduct campaigns in strict compliance with the Electoral Act and avoid actions capable of inciting violence.
The Special Assistant also cautioned social media users and content creators against disseminating materials capable of damaging the image of Ebonyi State.
"People should realise that when they deliberately spread falsehoods about Ebonyi, they are not only attacking the government but also damaging the image of the state and themselves," he said.
Nwambam disclosed that his office was making arrangements to meet with the new leadership of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), chairmen and representatives of registered political parties by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to chart a framework for peaceful political engagement during the electioneering period.
According to him, the planned engagement is aimed at strengthening political tolerance, promoting issue-based campaigns and ensuring a peaceful atmosphere throughout the electoral process in Ebonyi State.
