“Govs Are Intimidating Us”, PDP States’ Chairmen Cry Out

By Ayodele Oni

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has alleged that opposition members and candidates are facing increasing intimidation from incumbent governors in several states, making it difficult for them to participate freely in political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The party also raised fresh concerns over alleged intimidation, harassment and killings of its members and candidates in Ebonyi State, announcing plans to petition the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, and other relevant security agencies over the incidents.

The Chairman of the PDP State Chairmen Forum and Imo State PDP Chairman, Austin Nwachukwu, disclosed this on Tuesday during a meeting between the party’s National Working Committee, NWC and state chairmen in Abuja.

Nwachukwu specifically expressed concern over the situation in Ebonyi State, accusing the administration of Governor Francis Nwifuru of presiding over an environment where intimidation, harassment and arrests of opposition members had become rampant.

According to him, the leadership of the PDP State Chairmen Forum visited Ebonyi State last week to intervene in what he described as a disturbing situation.

He said the proposed petition was intended to draw the attention of the police chief and other security agencies to the allegations and seek urgent intervention to protect opposition members and candidates.

Nwachukwu warned that the party would no longer tolerate attacks against its candidates, particularly those contesting governorship positions.

“The killings and harassment of our candidates and governorship candidates, especially in various states of the country, must stop.”

He maintained that political contests should be determined through legitimate electoral processes rather than threats, intimidation or violence against candidates and their supporters.

The PDP chairman also pledged the commitment of state chairmen to working with the party’s National Working Committee to strengthen its structures and secure victory in the 2027 general elections.

Meanwhile, the PDP National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, reaffirmed the commitment of the party’s national leadership to respecting its constitution and established procedures in managing its affairs.

Mohammed commended the state chairmen for overseeing what he described as successful nomination exercises for candidates contesting governorship, National Assembly and state House of Assembly seats across the 36 states.

He expressed optimism about the party’s prospects in the forthcoming elections, assuring members that the National Working Committee would work with other party organs to achieve its objectives.