Deputy Senate whip Onyekachi Nwebonyi has urged the people of the Izzi clan to desist from divisive actions and follow their leaders to bring about unity and development.

Mr Nwebonyi (APC–Ebonyi North) gave the admonition on Sunday while addressing newsmen on the political situation in his district, following the emergence of candidates from different political parties for the positions.

The senator said that God used Governor Francis Nwifuru, who also hails from the clan, to unify the people and enable them to rise above all divisive tendencies.

“The wave of kindred dichotomy presently in the clan is caused by an external force which we know. We still have some propagators among us, but our message to them is that the days of kindred division are over,” he said.

He noted that the  people of the clan were united in supporting the governor, as nothing would bring division among them again.

“The governor is from the Igbojima kindred, while I come from Unwueroh, but we have bonded well to lift, not just the Izzi people but the entire Ebonyi. Our leadership style is devoid of high–handedness. It epitomises humility and hard work, which our people are known for,” he said.

Mr Nwebonyi, who won the primary to represent the district for another term under the APC, said he did not violate any political  arrangement.

“There is no political or constitutional basis stopping  me from a second-term bid. Those making such a claim should provide evidence of such an arrangement. The former Ebonyi governor, Senator Sam Egwu, represented the district for two terms, so I am not the only senator seeking a second term,” he said.

He declared that he had no formidable rival ahead of the 2027 senatorial election, attributing his confidence to his effective representation and impactful constituency projects.

“My tenure has attracted over 400 kilometres of federal road projects to  the district, including those connecting Cross River, Benue, Nasarawa and Abuja.

“We have constructed over 10 kilometres of concrete roads, awarded scholarships to more than 500 students, and empowered over 10,000 farmers across the district, among other achievements.

“My position in the senate leadership has enabled me to attract developmental projects and opportunities to the district and entire state,” he said.

(NAN)