The Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) candidate for Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency in the 2027 general election, Godwin Aliuna, has withdrawn from the race, citing the need to promote peace and protect the broader interests of Ebonyi State.
Aliuna announced his withdrawal in a statement issued at the weekend following consultations with constituents, political associates and other key stakeholders across the state.
The former House of Representatives aspirant said the decision was difficult, given his determination to represent the people of Ebonyi/Ohaukwu at the National Assembly, but stressed that the collective interest of Ebonyians should take precedence over individual political ambition.
According to him, his decision followed an assessment of the prevailing political situation in the state and feedback received during his consultations.
Aliuna said his withdrawal would not diminish his commitment to the development of the constituency, maintaining that his political ambition had always been driven by a desire to promote effective representation, legislation, empowerment and strategic development interventions.
He listed improved infrastructure, road construction and rural connectivity among the areas he would have prioritised if elected, alongside the provision of potable water through boreholes and other community-based projects.
He also identified agriculture, education and human capital development as critical areas requiring greater attention.
Aliuna said investment in agriculture could empower farmers, create employment, generate wealth and reduce poverty, particularly in rural communities.
He expressed concern over poverty, unemployment and economic hardship confronting families in Ebonyi/Ohaukwu, calling for innovative and sustainable interventions by governments at all levels.
The politician also advocated greater investment in young people through skills acquisition, employment opportunities and support for entrepreneurship.
Although he expressed confidence in the DLA and his support base ahead of the 2027 election, Aliuna said he decided to withdraw “for the sake of peace” and in recognition of what he described as Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s peace-building efforts in the state.
He argued that political contests should not become avenues for division, bitterness or instability, insisting that the collective interest of Ebonyians remained more important than personal political ambitions.
Following his withdrawal, Aliuna announced that he would mobilise his supporters and loyalists in Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency to support Governor Nwifuru’s 2027 governorship bid.
He said the Governor had demonstrated commitment to the interests of the people, while urging him to intensify efforts in delivering dividends of democracy in employment, infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture and empowerment.
Aliuna, however, advised the Governor to prioritise competence, accountability and performance in the appointment and supervision of aides and associates.
He warned that non-performing officials, including aides, associates or relatives whose actions undermine government programmes could negatively affect the administration’s achievements and widen the gap between the government and the people.
The former aspirant appealed to supporters who might be disappointed by his withdrawal to remain calm and hopeful, assuring them that his political journey was not over.
He said he would use the period to regroup, strengthen his political structures and deepen engagement with constituents ahead of the 2031 general election.
Aliuna expressed appreciation to his constituents, supporters, political associates and stakeholders for their support and confidence in his aspiration.
He urged Ebonyians to remain peaceful and united, reiterating that his decision to withdraw from the 2027 race was taken in the interest of the state.
“Our journey continues, and with God Almighty, the future will provide us with an even greater opportunity to serve,” he said.
