By Nkechinyere Ewa
The Ebonyi State Government has urged residents to disregard what it described as sponsored media attacks, negative narratives and “staged protests” against the administration of Governor Francis Nwifuru.
The government, in a press briefing on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Barr. Chief Ikeuwa Omebeh, said the recent activities were aimed at misleading the public, creating tension and undermining the achievements of the administration.
It, however, acknowledged the constitutional right of citizens to express their views and participate in peaceful protests, stressing that such rights should not be exploited to deliberately misinform the public.
According to Omebeh, Governor Nwifuru has remained focused on the development of the state through investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, workers’ welfare, human capital development, rural development, empowerment and social intervention programmes.
He said the administration’s governance philosophy was anchored on the People’s Charter of Needs, which places the interests and welfare of Ebonyians at the centre of government policies and programmes.
The commissioner said the government was particularly concerned about narratives that sought to distract attention from ongoing road construction, rehabilitation of schools and healthcare facilities, rural development projects and empowerment programmes across the state.
He urged Ebonyians to assess the administration based on its record and the impact of its programmes on communities rather than social media narratives or protests which, according to him, did not represent the views of the majority of the people.
“Development is not measured by the volume of criticism it generates, but by its impact on the lives of the people,” he said.
Omebeh also said the state government remained open to legitimate criticism and constructive suggestions, but insisted that such criticism must be based on facts, patriotism and genuine concern for the common good.
He urged youths in particular to be discerning and avoid being used by individuals whose interests, he alleged, may be at variance with the collective interest of the state.
The commissioner reassured Ebonyians that Governor Nwifuru remained “focused, undistracted and committed” to fulfilling his mandate, saying the governor would not be distracted by what he described as political theatrics and sponsored attacks.
“Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru remains focused on governance. Ebonyi remains focused on development. And the people remain the ultimate beneficiaries,” Omebeh said.