The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State has officially refuted accusations that its members are illicitly gathering or keeping Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). During a press briefing in Abakaliki, state publicity secretary Prince Darlington Peter Onwe characterized these claims as a deliberate smear campaign intended to justify the harassment or detention of party members.
Onwe linked these accusations to the intensifying political atmosphere leading up to the 2027 general elections. He emphasized that the PDP operates strictly within the bounds of the law, rejecting any association with activities that would violate the 2026 Electoral Act or Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regulations. The spokesperson raised concerns regarding potential illegal crackdowns on supporters, urging security agencies and human rights monitors to maintain oversight in the state.
Furthermore, Onwe highlighted an incident in Ikwuator, Idembia, where he claimed political thugs obstructed a PDP event welcoming a new member, an act that reportedly also targeted journalists. While the party remains vigilant regarding its legal rights, it has called upon the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to prioritize policy-focused debates rather than confrontation. The APC had not provided a response to these allegations by the time this report was prepared.