The newly sworn-in Chairman of Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Eze Paul Ituma, has warned opposition political parties and their supporters against carrying out political activities in the council area without his approval ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ituma issued the warning while speaking on the growing political activities in Ohaukwu, declaring that anyone who attempts to operate against his political interests in the area could be declared persona non grata.
“Anyone who tries to do so will be declared persona non grata. This is the time for politics. I don’t have a shop at the International Market or Okwo Ngbo Market; politics is my business. Anyone who wants to put sand in my garri should not come close to Ohaukwu,” he said.
The chairman’s remarks have sparked concerns over the growing use of aggressive political rhetoric ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly where such statements are perceived as threats against opposition parties and their supporters.
Ituma, who recently assumed office as chairman of the local government, is an All Progressives Congress (APC) politician.
His warning comes amid heightened political activities across the country as political parties and their supporters begin preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The statement has also generated reactions among political observers, with concerns that restricting opposition activities could undermine political participation and the rights of citizens to support political parties of their choice.
The chairman’s remarks have further added to concerns surrounding inflammatory political statements by politicians ahead of the 2027 elections.
