The Ebonyi State Government has rejected claims of a political fallout between Governor Francis Nwifuru and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, insisting that reports suggesting tension between the two leaders are false and politically motivated.

State authorities accused factions within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of deliberately misrepresenting remarks made by Governor Nwifuru during a recent endorsement rally for President Bola Tinubu and other All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The clarification was contained in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Ikeuwa Omebeh, who maintained that the governor never issued any threat against the FCT minister.

“At no time did His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, issue any threat against the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike.

“In his speech at the event, the Governor only cautioned some opposition elements who are fanning the embers of crisis in the state and spreading fake news and propaganda in the name of Barr. Nyesom Wike to desist from such acts.”

Omebeh also explained that the governor’s use of the word “consume” during the rally was figurative, noting that it referred to the legal consequences awaiting anyone who deliberately violates the law rather than a personal threat against any individual.

The commissioner stressed that Governor Nwifuru and Minister Wike continue to enjoy a cordial relationship founded on mutual respect, adding that attempts to portray the pair as political rivals would not succeed.

Turning his attention to the opposition, Omebeh urged the PDP to focus on resolving its internal disputes instead of attacking the Ebonyi State Government.

“A party that has been unable to resolve its internal crisis for years lacks the moral rectitude to comment on governance issues.”

He further argued that the PDP’s factions have little political influence in Ebonyi and would not pose a significant challenge to the APC during the 2027 elections.

The state government also warned individuals spreading misinformation and propaganda for political purposes that they could face legal action if found culpable.

The clarification followed widespread reactions to comments Governor Nwifuru made during the endorsement rally, where he dismissed claims that President Bola Tinubu had allegedly handed political control of Ebonyi State to Wike and his associates within the PDP.