Nkechinyere Ewa,
Godwin Aliuna, the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) candidate for Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency in the 2027 House of Representatives election, has withdrawn from the race and declared support for Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s re-election bid.
Aliuna said his decision was taken after consultations with his constituents, political associates and key stakeholders, adding that the collective interest, peace and development of Ebonyi State should take precedence over personal political ambition.
In a statement issued on Saturday, he said withdrawing from the contest was difficult, considering his commitment to the people of Ebonyi/Ohaukwu and his aspiration to provide effective and people-oriented representation at the National Assembly.
According to him, his decision followed a careful assessment of the political situation in the state and the views expressed by constituents and stakeholders during his consultations.
Aliuna said his withdrawal would not end his political engagement, stressing that his ambition had always been driven by a desire to contribute to the development of his constituency through legislation, empowerment and strategic interventions.
He identified infrastructure, rural roads, potable water, agriculture, education and human capital development as areas requiring greater attention in Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency.
The politician also expressed concern over poverty, unemployment and economic hardship, particularly among young people and rural families, saying sustainable interventions were needed to create jobs, empower citizens and stimulate economic growth.
While maintaining that the DLA and its supporters were capable of winning the 2027 election, Aliuna said he chose to step down “for the sake of peace” and in recognition of what he described as Governor Nwifuru’s peace-building efforts in the state.
He subsequently pledged to mobilise his supporters and loyalists in Ebonyi/Ohaukwu to back Nwifuru in the 2027 governorship election, saying the governor had demonstrated commitment to the interests of Ebonyians.
Aliuna, however, said his political journey was far from over, revealing plans to use the period to regroup, consolidate his political structures and strengthen his relationship with the people ahead of the 2031 elections.
He urged Nwifuru to sustain his focus on employment, infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture and empowerment, while calling for competence, accountability and performance among those serving in the administration.
He also appealed to his supporters to remain calm and united, assuring them that his decision was taken in the interest of peace and the greater good of Ebonyi State.
“Our journey continues, and with God Almighty, the future will provide us with an even greater opportunity to serve,” Aliuna said.