The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has intervened in an emerging political dispute in Ebonyi Central senatorial district, urging stakeholders to embrace peace, dialogue, and consensus-building ahead of the next election cycle.
The intervention follows a viral video from April 24, 2026, which showed a misunderstanding between Senator Ken Eze, who represents Ebonyi Central, and a National Assembly aspirant from Ikwo Local Government Area, Christian Nwali, popularly known as C Sagas. The incident occurred during a burial ceremony in the state and quickly sparked online debate over succession politics and zoning arrangements.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Umahi’s office said the minister convened a reconciliation meeting on April 26 with both parties to prevent further escalation of the disagreement.
During the meeting, Umahi described the situation as unnecessary and urged both sides to prioritise unity over personal or group interests.
According to him, both Senator Eze and Nwali are politically aligned to his structure, but tensions among their supporters had created avoidable friction.
He recalled that there had been a prior political understanding suggesting that the Ebonyi Central senatorial seat would rotate to Ikwo after the current tenure. However, he noted that political dynamics remain fluid and subject to broader consultations.
Umahi stressed that while anyone is free to contest, decisions on zoning and succession must be handled carefully to avoid division within the district.
He advised both camps to suspend hostilities and engage Governor Francis Nwifuru alongside selected leaders from Ezza and Ikwo in structured dialogue aimed at resolving the matter.
He explained that only a properly coordinated engagement between the governor and respected stakeholders from both sides could produce a lasting solution.
Beyond the immediate dispute, Umahi also used the opportunity to restate Ebonyi State’s political alignment with President Bola Tinubu, declaring strong support for his re-election bid.
He said the state remains united behind the president and expressed confidence that Ebonyi would deliver overwhelming support at the polls, citing ongoing federal projects as evidence of effective collaboration between the state and the federal government.
Umahi further encouraged political actors in the state to prioritise stability and avoid actions capable of creating division, stressing that governance and development must remain the central focus.
He also hinted at ongoing efforts within the state leadership to encourage consensus candidates for legislative positions as part of broader efforts to maintain political harmony.
Senator Ken Eze, in his response, appreciated the minister’s intervention and described him as a stabilising figure in Ebonyi politics. He also cautioned supporters against escalating disagreements, especially on social media.
Similarly, Christian Nwali called for restraint among political supporters, urging that unity and respect for leaders be maintained despite differences in ambition.
The reconciliation efforts are expected to continue as stakeholders work toward a final resolution ahead of the next electoral cycle.
