The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ebonyi State, Dr Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, has alerted security agencies over what he described as concerns about the safety of his running mate, Patrick Mgbebu, ahead of the February 8, 2027 governorship election.

Odii, through his spokesman, Emmanuel Igwe, urged the security agencies to investigate information available to them and take necessary steps to protect Mgbebu, members of the campaign council and other supporters of the party.

Mgbebu, a former member of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly and immediate past representative of the state on the Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Allocation Commission (RMAFC), was selected as Odii’s running mate about two weeks ago following consultations with PDP stakeholders in the state.

Odii said Mgbebu’s experience, personality and political reach across different groups influenced his choice as running mate.

He also noted Mgbebu’s previous political activities within the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying his decision to join the PDP campaign reflected his commitment to the state.

The PDP candidate said the choice followed consultations with party stakeholders and consideration of Mgbebu’s political experience and credentials.

Odii said the security concerns surrounding his running mate should be taken seriously as political activities ahead of the 2027 election intensify.

He called on security agencies to assess any credible information relating to threats against political actors in the state and take appropriate preventive measures.

Odii also appealed to political parties, candidates, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations and security agencies to work together to maintain peace throughout the electoral process.

He said political disagreements should be addressed through constitutional and democratic means rather than confrontation or violence.

“The people of Ebonyi State deserve an election conducted in an atmosphere of peace, freedom and security. Nobody should be intimidated, threatened or harmed because of his or her political affiliation,” Odii said.

He urged security agencies to provide adequate protection for all political actors and campaign organisations irrespective of their party affiliations.

Odii further called on politicians and their supporters to avoid inflammatory statements and actions capable of heightening tensions as preparations for the governorship election continue.

He said he remained committed to pursuing his political ambition through constitutional and democratic means, stressing the need for all stakeholders to protect the peace in Ebonyi State.