The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for the 2027 general election in Ebonyi State, Chief Chukwuma Ifeanyi Odii, has stated that democracy is designed to positively affect the overall interest and well being of the people.
According to him, the reverse has become the case in recent times as most Nigerians, including Ebonyians are still living in abject poverty.
In a Democracy Day message marking the 2026 June 12 celebration, Odii said Nigeria’s democratic journey would only attain true meaning when elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner where every vote counts without intimidation or interference.
He called for an end to electoral fraud, vote manipulation, and godfatherism in Nigerian politics.
He stressed that the essence of democracy lies in the sovereignty of the people, noting that the persistent challenges of electoral malpractice, abuse of state power, and political manipulation must be decisively addressed ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Odii commended the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party, including key figures such as Nyesom Wike, the National Chairman, and the National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, as well as other members of the National Working Committee, for their commitment to strengthening democratic institutions within the party and the country at large.
He also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to ensure credible electoral processes, calling on stakeholders such as civil society groups, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the media to remain vigilant in defending democratic values and safeguarding the sanctity of the ballot.
Reiterating his vision for Ebonyi State, the PDP candidate pledged an administration anchored on transparency, accountability, and inclusive development, promising reforms in education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and youth empowerment if elected.
Odii further assured his supporters that he remains committed to protecting every lawful vote in the 2027 elections, emphasizing that the era of political patronage, godfatherism, and electoral manipulation must give way to a merit-driven democratic system in Nigeria.