A former Chairman of Edda Local Government Area in Ebonyi State, Dr. Eni Uduma Chima, has declared his unwavering commitment to run for the House of Representatives seat until he wins.
Speaking during a thanksgiving event in his hometown, Ekoli Edda, Dr. Chima said his political journey is far from over and he is determined to keep contesting regardless of opposition.
Dr. Chima has previously contested for the House of Representatives seat twice. He first ran in 2015 under the Labour Party and again in 2023 under the All Progressives Congress (APC), losing both times to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Iduma Igariwey, who has held the seat for over a decade.
During his speech at the thanksgiving service organized for 51 community members recently granted amnesty by Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, Dr. Chima said he remains confident in his political strength and local support.
The event, held at Egbebu Central School field, was disrupted by suspected political thugs, who reportedly dismantled canopies, scattered chairs, and destroyed decorations.
“These individuals are clearly doing the bidding of some political opponents,” Chima noted, adding that their actions were aimed at silencing him. Despite the chaos, he praised the community members for maintaining peace and said the matter was resolved without violence.
“I’m contesting for House of Representatives in 2027. I am eminently qualified, sufficiently experienced and I am owing nobody apology. The people are with me, I will keep contesting until I win and I will continue to be law abiding in the aspiration,” he stated.
He also accused a small group within the community of trying to diminish his influence because of his popularity. According to him, the people of Ekoli have always stood behind him, giving him large numbers of votes in past elections.
Dr. Chima further thanked Governor Nwifuru for granting amnesty to the 51 residents who had acted as vigilantes during violent clashes between the Edda community and neighboring Cross River communities. The clashes reportedly resulted in multiple deaths and destruction of property.
A member of the community’s traditional council, Etta Egor, cautioned those behind the disturbances to stop immediately or face consequences. “They will regret their actions if they don’t stop disrupting the peace we are trying to rebuild,” he warned.
At an earlier church service held at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, Rev. A.N. Ukaoma urged the amnesty beneficiaries to show forgiveness to those who wronged them, just as they had received mercy.
The reception afterward featured dances from different cultural groups in the local government area, adding color to what was otherwise a tense but meaningful occasion.
